Nose
Aromas of leather, all spice and cassis lead into the palate with a meatiness that is balanced by fresh black cherry.
Palate
Full bodied with gripping tannins, the wine finishes with a beautiful warm vanilla from the oak influence.
Growing Conditions
The 2020 early growing season was near normal. Rainfall occurred mainly in early winter and early spring and seasonal totals were just below average. Vine growth and berry development was typical through spring. Summer brought unusual heatwaves which slowed berry development, keeping them small with a desirable skin to juice ratio. September was warm and dry, aiding in fruit maturity with ideal color and flavors.
Bottling
January 2022
Winemaking
The 2020 blend is comprised of three Syrah clones –470 (Garonne, France), 383 (Hermitage, France), and our newest planting Clone 27.1. The grapes were handpicked and fermented separately by vineyard block in five-ton, open-top tanks. After daily pump-overs (for color and tannin extraction) for 10 days, the tanks were tasted as well as tested for their tannins and structure for determination of their length in extended maceration.
Aging
These wines were held from 15-20 days on their skins before the being aged separately for 10 months in 100% once used French oak barrels. The wine was racked once during summer of 2021 to be blended and returned to 50% new and 50% once used French oak barrels. Just prior to bottling, the wine was racked for its second and final time.
Food Pairing
BBQ Brisket with a Texas Style BBQ Sauce
