The Cycles Gladiator brand originated at Hahn Estates in Monterey County, when Adam LaZarre was winemaker there. The brand became quite successful and even gained a degree of notoriety when its distinctive label with a nude redhead hanging onto a bicycle was banned in Alabama.
LaZarre left Hahn for other endeavors, and Cycles Gladiator has languished in recent years. But the brand was acquired by Wine Hooligans in 2013, and LaZarre is on board to make the wine again. With the 2014 vintage, all grapes are sourced from the Central Coast.
This 2014 Cycles Gladiator Petite Sirah is dark and robust, with blackberry fruit, a hint of roasted coffee and firm tannins. It’s not overbearing, like some petites can be, but it has plenty of flavor and a ridiculously low price of $11.