Garretson Aisling Syrah 2004

Our Aisling (pronounced ‘ASH-ling') Syrah serves as a stylistic counterpoint to all the other Syrahs we produce. The other Syrahs in our portfolio come from cooler vineyard sources, whereas Aisling is from slightly warmer sites. All of our other Syrahs have a little bit of Viognier added to the final blend. Not Aisling. It's always 100% Syrah. And while all of our other Syrahs utilize French cooperage, the Aisling is always partially barrel fermented and aged in American oak…usually 50% to 70% new.

When we describe our production protocol for the Aisling, many people immediate assume that this wine will be in an ‘Aussie' style. After all, most of the finest Australian Shiraz are a blend of Syrah vineyards, partially barrel fermented and aged in American oak, etc. While the protocol is similar, the end result usually has more in common with the Northern Rhône appellation of Crozes-Hermitage.

Our Aisling showcases aromas of Herbes de Provence, earth, cherry and spice, and flavors of kirsch, plum, minerals, blueberry and pepper. The palate is rather immense and extracted, but there's good acidity and finely-integrated tannins that keep it all in check.

When it comes to our two blended vineyard Syrahs, there's a basic rule of thumb. If you're a Francophile chances are that you'll enjoy our Craic. If, on the other hand, you enjoy bigger, bolder, New World wines, the Aisling will be more to your liking.

Aisling is a Gaelic word that means ‘dream' or ‘vision', and describes a Syrah that follows a decidedly different vision than our other Syrahs. And different is good.

"Smoky, peppery, and earthy is the 2004 Syrah The Aisling (100% Syrah). It exhibits tremendous depth, richness, and full-bodied power as well as a long, textured, heady finish. Consume it over the next decade."
-Wine Advocate