Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Aromas of white and bell pepper are tight, focused, structured and full-bodied, slowly unveiling layers of dark berry, fresh earth, mineral and sage notes, with an amazing finish.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The blockbuster 2007 Syrah Rosella's vineyard's inky/purple color is followed by a big, sweet kiss of camphor, graphite, ink, blackberries, and blueberries. This dense, full-bodied, velvety-textured effort is a head-turning show-stopper.
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.”
Perhaps the most highly regarded appellation within Monterey County, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA benefits from a combination of warm morning sunshine and brisk afternoon breezes, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The result is concentrated, flavorful wines that retain their natural acidity. Wineries here do not shy away from innovation, and place a high priority on sustainable viticultural practices.
The climatic conditions here are perfectly suited to the production of ripe, rich Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These Burgundian varieties dominate an overwhelming percentage of plantings, though growers have also found success with Syrah, Riesling and Pinot Gris.