The Sinister Hand bears the family crest depiction of a severed left hand, which tells the story of a rowing competition among the O’Neills & the O’Reillys (Owen Roe was an O’Neill). Whom ever touched land first after rowing across the lake was rewarded with the land he touched. Lagging behind, one of the O’Neill kinsfolk grabbed his sword to cleave his hand and pitched it ashore to touch the land first. He won the land and eventually ruled over it as king. From this touching (sick) story comes a cult favorite wine; definitely worth the sacrifice!

The 2009 Sinister Hand bears a clear, bright garnet color and boasts notes of wild strawberries, tayberries, black pepper and red and black currants. A precise acid structure lends the framework for the ripe black fruit and baked brown earth finish.Grenache provides festive red fruit flavors while the Syrah and Mourvedre add savory notes of stewed dark fruits, sweet herbs and a complex earthiness. Pair this wine with roasted fowl, pork and lighter beef dishes as well as washed-rind cheeses. Drink now through 2015.

2009 was a great vintage for Grenache, so this year's Sinister Hand is better than ever, 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 3% Mourvedre, 2% Counoise.