2017 Syrah

Vineyard: The River Road Ranch vineyard is located within the Russian River Valley AVA. The soil composition is Cortina, characterized as deep, well-draining soil composed mainly of gravel/sandy loam. This fast-draining soil leads to stressed vines that focus their energy on the grapes rather than leafy growth, resulting in more intensity and concentration. Certified Sustainable in 2017 (CCSW)

 

38°29'18.9"N 122°49'00.5"W

 

Vintage: The 2017 harvest will be remembered as a near perfect vintage for most winegrowers. Spring rains meant that the vines had plenty of reserves to work with during bud break and the flowering seasons. The summer months were warm and mild creating ideal growing conditions. Things warmed up in September hastening the harvest season. All in all, while yields came in on par with previous years, quality across all varietals was outstanding.

 

Winemaking: The wine was made in small open top fermenters in a style similar to Pinot Noir; hand plunging the cap three to four times daily. The wine is hand plunged up to four times per day to allow for maximum extraction of flavor and color from the skins. The whole berries retain the deep dark blackberry fruit character that is so intense in this wine.

 

Oak: 100% American | Aging: 15 months