Winemaker Notes
The 2022 Luli Syrah asserts itself as a testament to the beauty and intensity that can be attained with Syrah in a cool climate growing region. The inky and opaque hue signals the weight of the wine, and the bouquet displays an intoxicating array of aromas. Blackberry jam, crushed blueberries, cracked pepper and dried herbs express themselves from the glass in a complex array of flavors. A combination of granite soil and whole cluster fermentation reckons and old-world character on the nose and through the structure. Waves of firm, yet velvety tannins on the palate provide texture while a gentle acidity brings freshness and length to the palate.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2022 Syrah (Santa Lucia Highlands) is a notably red-fruited interpretation of the variety from a more northern site within the AVA. Bright, tart acids and a heady air of menthol lift a base of energetic strawberry, blood orange, black olive and sassafras. This doesn’t have the imposing tannic heft of some of the other Syrahs in the appellation, which makes it a great candidate for drinking over the near and medium term.
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.