Jaffurs Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard 2002

This bottling of 2002 Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah is again dark as night, yet lean, spicy, and balanced. More aromatic than usual, it has clean berry nuances and a brooding, dark fruit flavor. It shows the white pepper - Provençal flavors characteristic of Bien Nacido Pinot Noir. A big Syrah for cellaring to 2008.

The new Zb-Syrah block at Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria is proving to be the most impressive syrah producer in this famous vineyard. Overall, the vineyard is cool, but this particular site is high up, exposed, and wind-swept. Above the vineyard is a steep 200 foot hill-face that reflects sunlight back onto the closely spaced vines.

Food Pairing: This is a powerfully flavored wine which works well with similarly flavorful food. Try dark sauces, even some with dark fruit. Makes a great reduction sauce. Try spiced or BBQ pork, lamb, or beef. Seared, spiced Ahi is a favorite, as is smoked salmon.