Matanzas Creek Syrah 2004

This is the ninth vintage of Matanzas Creek's limited production Syrah, the third crafted by winemaker Francois Cordesse. Eighty-five percent Syrah, this wine also includes small percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, which each add unique character to the final wine blend. The Syrah fruit was sourced from vineyards located in cooler regions of Sonoma County. Francois meticulously selected fruit that ripened slowly in order to ensure rich and intense flavor character. Francois notes, "Syrah is very difficult to grow and vinify, but the result is well worth the effort."

The 2004 Syrah exhibits a deep, ruby red color, hinting at the density of flavors to come. The initial nose is of violets and loam from a forest after the rain. The second nose delivers dark ripe fruit, leather and tobacco leaves. The wine is exceedingly soft on the palate, caressing the mouth with the velvety taste of black cherries and ripe plums, a distinct note of pepper and cinnamon, and a remarkable tannic structure. The overall experience is generous and substantial, and the finish is long and luscious.

Francois recommends that this Syrah be served cool and decanted for 20 to 30 minutes prior to serving. The wine will age for another four to five years, reaching its peak in approximately three years. At this point it will have developed deeper, earthier characteristics and a stronger leather note.