The 2017 Sarah’s Vineyard Syrah is based on this noble variety of France’s Northern Rhone, responsible worldwide for classic reds. From French Hermitage to Australian Shiraz, Syrah is one of the most popular and widely-planted red wine grapes.
The Syrah for our 2017 release came from our good friend George Besson, Jr.’s old vineyard, just 300 yards to the east of Sarah’s. This historic property was originally planted in 1922. George’s and our estates bridge the historic Santa Clara Valley and the cooler climate “Mt. Madonna” district of the southern Santa Cruz Mountains. Here fog and winds from nearby Monterey Bay dramatically cool down the vineyards, extending the growing season and providing unique conditions for complex Rhone cultivars.
Tim’s tasting notes: “The nose displays fresh blackberries, boysenberry, plum sauce, violets, and a typical touch of white pepper. The palate echoes the fruit aromas with the addition of a bit of bacon and cinna- mon. Should be sensational with grilled meats or herbed-lamb.”
Appellation: Santa Clara Valley
Vineyard: Besson
Grower: George Besson, Jr.
Alcohol: 13.9
Cooperage: French Oak, 20% New, 20 Months
Production: 216
