Details
Winemaker’s Notes~
This award winning wine emulates the same characteristics of the sagging- grape phenomenon as does the older vintage, however the process of fermentation is pulled from an old Rhone practice called Cote-Rotie (co- fermented). This process uses a large percentage of Syrah (80- 95%) Cote- Rotie with a smaller percentage of Viognier (5-20%) in order to emulate smooth dark berry flavors with velvety tannic qualities from start to finish. A special strain of yeast is used to help produce these natural Syrah flavors without compromising the delicacy of the Cote-Rotie. Our 07 Syrah – 90% Syrah and 10% Viognier.
Have a Taste~
The ‘07 Syrah has deep dark color and the aroma has distinct notes of cherry and cassis. The cherry and cassis carry through the palate with the smooth tannins allowing for a long, soft, lingering finish. This wine can stand up to some stronger game flavors and pairs well with game and barbequed meats.
The Grape~
Although the Syrah grape (also known as Shiraz) came to us from the Rhône region of Southeastern France, it had been unclear as to whether that is where the grape originated. UC Davis used it’s DNA typing technology and discovered that the Syrah grape is the offspring of the Dureza (father) and Mondeuse Blanche (mother) varietals, both native to Southeastern France. Syrah first appeared in California in 1878 but remained rather obscure until just recently and is now the most widely planted Rhône varietal in state. Sometimes confused with Petite Sirah, they are separate varietals.