Quivira Wine Creek Ranch Syrah 2011
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Family owned since its founding in 1981, proprietors Pete and Terri Kight were drawn to the estate's natural beauty and unspoiled rural character. With 63 acres of vines planted at Wine Creek Ranch, and another 26 at two sites close by, today Quivira Vineyards is a leading producer of Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc and Rhône varieties, with a reputation for intentional winegrowing and a thoughtful commitment to organic farming.
Quivira’s environmental stewardship has been all-encompassing. Beginning in 1998, we partnered with conservation agencies in restoring Wine Creek and Dry Creek for their native Steelhead and Coho populations. We keep beehives to promote pollination of our garden’s genetically diverse produce varieties and raise animals to provide fertilization material. It is our philosophy that the vines are only as healthy as the entire ranch therefore we farm holistically and sustainably, and further our commitment with each vintage.
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 multifaceted and highly reputable sub-region of Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley is responsible for a wide range of wine styles—both red and white. One of the smallest AVAs in California, Dry Creek Valley has a winning combination of ideal geography and climate. Fertile, well-drained soils create concentrated varietal character while long, warm days, bookended by cool nights, allow grapes to reach full phenolic ripeness and balance. The warm and welcoming appellation is home to a number of family-owned vineyards and wineries that place a strong emphasis on sustainable farming practices.
Zinfandel reigns supreme here and still produces in a great number of very old vineyards—often 100 years old or older. These old vines create a powerful, voluptuous and sultry wine unlike those of any other region. Sauvignon Blanc, the valley’s signature white grape, also performs exceptionally well. Many other varieties grow comfortably here, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah. Petite Sirah is often found in blends with Zinfandel.