Welcome everybody, to another funky red and white blend presented by the beloved Tank Garage Winery. 2022 marks a brand new season of eclectic wines released from this small town gas station in Calistoga but the one to watch today is none other than Checkered Past! We're not wasting any time so let’s get this race started.

1 Light! 2 Lights! 3 Lights! 4 Lights! 5 Lights!

The checkered flag goes down... and it’s Go! Go! Go! 

This 2021 fan favorite is 51% Barbera, 19% Nero D'Avola, 18% Bianchetta Trevigiana, and 12% Montepulciano signaling our deep passion for Italian grape varietals.

Up first is Barbera, one of the most acidic red grapes on the track, so we are definitely making a pit stop for food. Second, Nero D'Avola is a lesser-known full-bodied Sicilian grape variety comprised of bold fruit-driven flavors; in this race, we're getting tons of black cherry. Third, Montepulciano may be Italy’s second most planted grape, but many folks have never even heard of it. It remains a rarity in California despite the climate being perfect to grow the perfect grapes for this beautiful, big, fruity wine.  Last, but certainly not least, Bianchetta Trevigiana is a light, crisp, and juicy white grape with delicate acidity to round it all out. Together, these grapes cross the finish line as a blend that is slick and easy drinkin’. We know you'll love it. All bets are on. 

Your first lap around the nose pulls in a whiff of popcorn stands on race day. Fuel up your tongue with notes of black pepper, thyme, leather, and figs, all qualities imparted by the 8 months spent in French oak barrels. As it settles in the glass, your taste buds downshift to tart raspberries and plum from the unique acidity created by the Barbera and Bianchetta.  

Checkered Past revs up with food. We went full throttle with an heirloom tomato and cucumber salad with arugula, quinoa, ricotta salata, radish, sunflower seeds, and a lemon-mint vinaigrette from our new favorite dining spot. The Spinster Sisters is a Cozy New American restaurant in Santa Rosa with an evolving menu of original farm-to-table dishes. This Italian blend will also pair well with hand-cut pasta, assorted cheese, and even, chicken wings. 

Thanks for spending the afternoon with us! Snag a bottle and we’ll see you at the digs again next weekend.