Barnard Griffin Syrah 2004
Syrah/Shiraz
from Columbia Valley, Washington
winemaker's notes:
Sensory:
Here is another great Syrah!! Again with a warm vintage we gained great color
and dramatic structure. The aromas of our 2004 are intense and very ripe with a
background note of spicy toasted French oak. Scents of plums, blackberries and
violets are dominant. The flavors are dark and rich on the palate following
through with the dark fruit theme. The wine is soft in its tannins but balanced
with good acidity.
Vineyards and Growing Season:
The 2004 growing season was hot with deep ripening fruit that gave us wines of
good structure. Both sugars and acids were balanced and optimal throughout our
contracted Syrah vineyards. I believe that Syrah achieves best results in our
climate if allowed to begin its characteristic dehydration. I remain dedicated to
blending different vineyard sources to achieve balanced, full flavored wines.
Winemaking:
ICV D54 yeast was used with a maximum fermentation temp of 88F
Pump-overs 2 to 3 times daily until fermented to ca. 5 degrees brix
Bottled 7/05
Malo-lactic positive
Aged in both American and French oak barrels
Alcohol: 13.8%