Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Thyme, cracked peppercorns, cherries, plums and a subtle hint of rare meat make for an intricate yet approachable wine.
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Vinous
Red-fruited and savory, the 2023 Syrah is a powerful young wine with considerable structure. That said, it’s surprisingly light on its feet. Ripe pomegranate, toasty oak spice and lifted eucalyptus tones blast through the drying, chalky finish. The 60% whole clusters are a little out in front today, amplifying the Syrah’s peppery stamp. There’s a lot to like here, but the 2023 is not an easygoing wine for near-term enjoyment. Hopefully, the tannins will soften before the fruit begins to fade.
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.