Winemaker Notes
Each year, Kuljian produces concentrated, opulent Syrah. This 2006 is dark, dense and sumptuous. The nose ripe and plum-like, with earth, spice, smoke and leather. Very hedonistic. The palate is full, lush and backed by smooth, well-integrated tannins.
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Both Syrah cuvees are very strong in 2006. The 2006 Syrah Kuljian Vineyard from Dry Creek. is a limited cuvee of less than 200 cases, it is a sumptuous Syrah packed and stacked with blackberry fruit interwoven with notions of camphor, pepper, meat juices, and tar. There is not a hard edge to be found in this oak-aged, unfined, unfiltered Syrah.
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.”
A multifaceted and highly reputable sub-region of Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley is responsible for a wide range of wine styles—both red and white. One of the smallest AVAs in California, Dry Creek Valley has a winning combination of ideal geography and climate. Fertile, well-drained soils create concentrated varietal character while long, warm days, bookended by cool nights, allow grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness and balance. The warm and welcoming appellation is home to a number of family-owned vineyards and wineries that place a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices.
Zinfandel reigns supreme here and still produces in a great number of very old vineyards—often 100 years old or older. These old vines create a powerful, voluptuous and sultry wine unlike those of any other region. Sauvignon Blanc, the valley’s signature white grape, also performs exceptionally well. Many other varieties grow comfortably here, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah. Petite Sirah is often found in blends with Zinfandel.