The Alexander Valley is a phenomenal place to grow Bordeaux varietals
like Cabernet Sauvignon, but what we've discovered over our years of
grape-growing is that Rhone grapes like Syrah do pretty well here too.
The 2005 displays big aromas of blueberries and sandalwood along with a
subtle nose of violets. On the palate, there are rich flavors of
blackberries, allspice and hints of black licorice and menthol.
We were able to preserve all those lush flavors by being rigorous in
the vineyard. The 2005 vintage delivered the kind of conditions that
meant a big harvest. With Syrah, that could have meant washed out
flavors. Dramatically culling the fruit in our vineyards, thus keeping
the yields down, meant we could deliver a concentrated Syrah reflective
of the Alexander Valley.
