Bebame Red Blend

Bebame was started by Don Heistuman, a reputable wine-wholesaler in Oregon, in an effort to make a California wine that satisfied his cravings for Beaujolais, Chinon and other old-world wines of that nature. With this vision in mind, Don partnered up with winemaker Steve Edmunds (of Edmunds St. John) and the go-to Sierra Foothills vineyard manager Ron Mansfield.

The wine is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Gamay, the fruit comes from two vineyards: Barsotti Ranch and Camino Alto. Barsotti Ranch, with its red granite soils, is a natural source for granite-loving Gamay; the vines here are 15 years old. Camino Alto, a site dominated by volcanic loam; here, the vines are over 25 years old. Both sites are located in El Dorado county, about 2 miles north-east of Placerville, at higher elevations— 3200 and 2800 feet, respectively—which ensures moderate temperatures during the day, as well as cool nights.