The 2021 Syrah comes from a steep east facing block planted to the Alban clone at Spanish Springs Vineyard. The grapes were hand harvested and clusters were partially destemmed with 70% of the whole clusters included in the fermenter. Fermentation began slowly without the addition of sulfites or cultured yeasts and after two weeks the wine was gently basket pressed to neutral French oak puncheon for ageing. Following 10-months in barrel, the wine was racked to tank prior to being bottled unfined and unfiltered. Robust olive and black berry aromas are complimented by savory pepper, herbal, and floral notes. The palate is elegant with soft, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity.
"Zippy, spicy aromas of white pepper, wet ash, under ripe blueberry and black raspberry pop on the nose of this single-vineyard bottling from a newly approved appellation. The palate carries that energy forward, showing crisp, freshly crushed fruit flavors, a vivid acidity and ample pepper spice." - 94 points Wine Enthusiast