Bonterra Organically Grown Syrah 2001

VINTAGE PROFILE
A long growing season, coupled with near-perfect weather patterns, set the stage for the 2001 vintage truly a great year for Bonterra Syrah. Because Syrah typically enjoys a later bud break, the vines escaped damage from a severe early April frost. A warm spring ensued, pushing the vines into a rapid growth cycle through May. Cooler temperatures prevailed during the summer, allowing the fruit to develop intense flavors and color while maturing slowly on the vine. Random heat spikes in September and October enabled the fruit to ripen to perfection. The result: a magnificent, silky, rich 2001 Bonterra Syrah.

NOTES FROM WINEMAKER ROBERT BLUE
The grapes were hand-harvested at optimum maturity, then crushed and fermented in a combination of one-ton, open-top bins and stainless steel fermenters specifically designed for red wine fermentation. The grapes were pressed at dryness and inoculated with malolactic bacteria to soften the mouthfeel. Juice was then racked into a combination of new and mature French oak barrels. When the wines finished malolactic fermentation, they were aged in the barrels for an additional 15 months. Rich fruit flavors of blackberry and juicy plums accented by ripe tannins dance with dark chocolate, vanilla and oak spice on the palate. The nose is beguiling, filled with aromatic dark fruits and nuances of white pepper spice. Like a classic Rhone, a small amount of Viognier lends a slight floral perfume.

FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS JOHN ASH - CHEF, AUTHOR, CULINARY DIRECTOR
Hearty is the watchword with this richly-textured, warmly-fruited wine. Game and smoked meats are obvious, but you might also bravely pair this with a warm spinach salad, loaded with crisp bacon and Feta cheese, and your favorite oil and vinegar dressing. Try this wine with braised and slow roasted meats, rotisserie and herbed chicken or cassoulet with smoked sausage. Aged hard cheeses like Reggiano Parmigiana, Granas aged Gouda, Pecorino and the like, are a nice accompaniment to this Syrah.