Winemaker Notes
This wine represents the culmination of a long journey towards using whole cluster in Syrah. An especially complex and exotic nose for Rattlesnake with a deep brooding Syrah savoriness with a floral, violet/lavender lift to the nose. Silky and intense on entry with abundant extract and a really long finish. This wine has tongue smacking mid palate power, while remaining seductive and elegant.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2019 Syrah Rattlesnake Rock shows the more elegant side of Syrah in its restrained aromatics and finessed, mid-weight personality. Crushed rose petal, mint, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco all grace this silky, wonderfully expressive Syrah. The 2019 is all class.
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 rugged and topographically diverse cool-climate appellation with a rich history, the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA stretches from Half Moon Bay, just south of San Francisco, to the northern border of Monterey County. Elevations range from 800 feet to upwards of 3,000 and microclimates vary substantially depending on which side of the mountains the vineyards lie; cool ocean winds and fog play an important role here. This can be a challenging region in which to grow grapes, but it is well worth the effort. Santa Cruz Mountains wines are noted for balanced acidity levels, often showing great aging potential. Wine has been made here since the 1800s, most notably from the legendary Ridge Vineyards, whose Monte Bello vineyard garners international admiration.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are the stars of this region, while Merlot and Zinfandel also perform quite well. Organic and sustainable vineyard practices are becoming increasingly common.