Stags' Leap Winery Syrah 2002

The black noble grape of Syrah occupies a profound place in the rich viticultural heritage of Stags' Leap. Our prized volcanic soils and warm microclimate are home to the oldest Syrah vines within the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. From these rustic vines on this historic property, along with fruit from vineyards in the cooler areas around Napa, we produce an exceptional Syrah of beauty and finesse, says winemaker Robert Brittan.

The power of Syrah has lured Brittan to craft Rhone varieties with a distinctive Napa Valley style. Our Stags' Leap Syrah is an elegant wine with a strong sense of place, says Brittan. Stags' Leap Syrah grapes sourced from the estate offer jammy, berry notes, while clusters from Brittan's personal vineyard near Napa contribute to the mineral, pepper and smoke components. The 2001 vintage expresses a classically earthy profile punctuated with red fruit and a hint of pepper spice, adds Brittan.

The luxuriant 2001 Syrah welcomes you with ripe blackberry aromas and flavors burnished with raspberry and black cherry. Look for a touch of mint hidden among leather and tobacco. Brittan chose to protect the fruit's integrity by aging the wine in mostly used French oak barrels for 14 months-keeping the wood nuances integrated and balanced. A touch of Petite Syrah was added for complexity, and a solid structure of round tannins supports the long finish of this full-bodied wine.