2016 Santa Lucia Highlands "Rosella's Vineyard" Syrah
100% Syrah
Our last fruit of the year, coming in on October 11th, we fermented each selection (Alban 1 and Bien Nacido) separately before blending the sub-components after the completion of malolactic fermentation the following spring. Each lot saw roughly 18% whole cluster and both were on the skins for 21 days before being pressed to all French oak, 27% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Dark ruby-purple. Practically opaque. A very savory nose of black olives, bergamot, and dark berry fruit. Very Northern Rhône-ish! Medium to medium full-bodied on entry, the wine shows great energy and thrust with flavors of dark berry fruit, pepper, and savory herbs. Lots of umami to this wine. Although enjoyable now, tannins suggest this wine will be best with a few additional years in bottle. Enjoy from 2021 through 2032 . (MRO - 07/01/18)