Winemaker Notes
Aromas of black olives and smoked meat give way to flavors of dark raspberries and spice. The Franc de Pied is a fine example of cool climate Syrah and reminiscent of classic Crozes-Hermitage wines. Enjoy now and over the next 8-10 years.
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Enthusiast
Extremely peppery aromas open the doors for Kalamata olive, blistered plum, singed lavender and chipped asphalt on the engaging nose of this bottling. Seared lamb, bay leaf and rosemary flavors arise on the sip, where green olive and cracked pepper battle for attention.
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 superior source of California Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills is the coolest, westernmost sub-region of the larger Santa Ynez Valley appellation within Santa Barbara County. This relatively new AVA is unquestionably one to keep an eye on.
The climate of Sta. Rita Hills is a natural match for Chardonnay and Pinot noir, thanks to the crisp ocean breezes and well-drained, limestone-rich calcareous soil. Here, grapes ripen just enough, while retaining brisk acidity and harmonious balance.