New Release:

Santa Ynez Valley 2005 Syrah

Winemaker Bruce McGuire is an early pioneer in blending Syrah grown throughout the west-east traverse of the Santa Ynez Valley. Because Syrah is proving to be the rare example of a varietal that can be grown in all the temperature zones found in our valley, blending vineyards becomes an intriguing endeavor.

The year after Bruce grafted the first Syrah in the Santa Rita Hills (1993) into our Lafond Vineyard, he noted the cool climate character of white pepper and complex lavender aromas were quite a bit more pronounced than even he had anticipated.

Since these components are forward flavors, Bruce sought out Syrah grown in the warmer eastern end of the valley where the grape exhibits the jammy fruit and black pepper character experienced in the back of the mouth.

In 2005, Bruce was able to split nearly equal portions of warmer climate Syrah with cool climate Syrah. Our cool climate Lafond Vineyard and neighboring Hill Top Ranch in the Santa Rita Hills represent 56% of the blend while the Joughin Vineyard near Los Olivos is the remaining 44%. Most of the wine aged in the small 60 gallon barrels as Syrah benefits from ample barrel aging.

“I chose six lots of Syrah from these climates to make a complete Syrah with big fruit intensity for a complete mouth experience” adds Bruce.

This small production wine shows big structure, black fruit and intense white pepper spice. In the bottle, 2009 should see full flavor development. Pair with rustic fare, grilled meats, and washed rind cheeses.

Suggested Retail: 16.00

To order