Winemaker Notes
Syrah is well adapted to steep, sun-exposed hillsides of the coastal California ranges. Along the dramatic ridge-tops of Anna’s vineyard, the Syrah blocks lie on a precarious southwest-facing slope. Lean soils, steep slopes, and low yields contribute to the deep color, intense flavor, and lavishly textured wine. These mature vines, originally planted in 2002, vividly translate the site and varietal purity. The decadently deep color exudes bursting ripe blueberries, exotic spices, and wild mountain herbs. Freshly tilled soil, licorice, and rose petals perfume the glass, followed by layers of mixed berry compote, fine leather, vanilla, and struck flint. Syrah makes some of the darkest wines in the world but is not austere or tannic. Enjoy this full-bodied beauty anytime.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A meaty syrah with dark-fruited and spiced character, offering notes of hazelnuts, toasted cedar and some tarry undertones. Full-bodied, refined and polished, with depth and generosity to the fruit. It’s ripe, but balanced and precise. Drink or hold.
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Wine Spectator
Generous, yet focused and precise, this red offers handsome raspberry, grilled meat and cracked pepper flavors that gather tension toward broad-shouldered tannins.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
