2019 Sonoma County Syrah
92% Russian River Valley Syrah, Papa’s Block
8% Bennett Valley Syrah, Radiant Ridge Vineyard
We have so little of this wine that I hesitate to say anything too positive. But man do I wish we had 10 times the amount! When we assembled the final Papa’s Block blend from the two tanks we fermented, a little bit of wine was leftover. It was great on its own but we decided to see if we could improve it. Yep, 8% Radiant Ridge Syrah did the trick! So you have two great vineyard designated Syrahs coming together to form a new delicious wine at a rock bottom price. Bet you wished we had 10 times the amount too! Aged completely in neutral oak and unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Dark ruby-purple. Varietally precise aromas of blackberries, smoked meats, and green peppercorns take center stage in the nose. Quite smooth on entry, flavors of blackberry and violet pastilles are highlighted by a suggestion of white pepper. Finishes long and gently tannic. A concentrated Syrah but also one of balance and elegance. Enjoy on release with a decant or drink from 2024 to 2035. (MRO - 01/05/21)