2004 Sonoma County Syrah
52% Bennett Valley Syrah, Judge Family Vineyard
48% Bennett Valley Syrah, Dry Stack Vineyard
As our Syrah program expanded, we realized it was time to produce an entry level Syrah, much as we’ve done on the Zinfandel side. As many of you know, “entry level” for Carlisle means only in price, not in quality. This “inaugural” Syrah is composed of two contiguous Bennett Valley vineyards, Judge Family and Dry Stack. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Opaque ruby/purple in color. Aromas of super-ripe black olives mixed with notes of blackberry liqueur, earth, and game. On the palate, full and concentrated with explosive flavors of smoked meat, mocha, and leather. Man this is delicious! Plenty of structure for bottle development. Peak enjoyment for this wine should be from late 2006 through 2012. (MRO – 1/28/06)