Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Manfred Krankl did point out that the name of this wine is not definitely but probably going to be “Squeezebox.” There are still a bunch of hoops to jump through before the label is signed, sealed and delivered. He shared the artwork for the label with me, again probably final but not yet definite, but which I think fans of are going to love. Who knew Mr. K played the squeezebox?
Barrel Sample: 98-100 -
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2018 Syrah Ziehharmonika (this was previously released as "Squeezebox") looks to be another magical wine in the making. This release comes mostly from the Third Twin and Eleven Confessions Vineyards yet has 6% from the Cumulus Vineyard around the estate in Oak View. The blend is 82% Syrah, 6.7% Mourvèdre, 5% Petite Sirah, and the rest Grenache, all still aging in 51% new French oak. A killer nose of blue fruits, white and black pepper, lots of spice, white flowers, and a touch of minerality gives way to a full-bodied, beautifully textured 2018 with good acidity, plenty of underlying tannins, and the purity of fruit and elegance that makes 2018 such a compelling vintage.
Barrel Sample: 96-99
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!