Winemaker Notes
Fresh plum and violet are juxtaposed by smoked meat and graphite in the delicate aromas of this wine. Hinting at blue and blackberries, this Syrah takes on lighter notes of apricot blossom and orange zest as it develops in the glass. Black pepper is carried through the palate by integrated tannins that bring freshness and structure; showcasing the volume but also elegance of this cooler climate Syrah.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2017 Syrah Californio Hyde Vineyard is a powerful, expansive wine endowed with tremendous breath. Silky tannins add to its sheer appeal. Dark blue/purplish fruit, spice, licorice and menthol are some of the many notes that open in the glass. This distinctly Pinot-leaning Syrah delivers the goods.
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James Suckling
Meat and spice with some pepper and fresh herbs. Tea leaf and tobacco, too. Attractive dark fruit. Raspberries, some blackberries and orange zest. Medium-to full-bodied with round, tight tannins and a fine finish. Shows pretty texture. I like the firmness and spiciness.
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.”
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.