A sandy soil plot in the cool climate of Sta. Rita Hills produces an elegant and distinct Syrah due to a long, slow growing season. 100% whole-cluster fermentation followed by 18 months in neutral barrels, combined with the inhospitable growing conditions, produces tasting notes of ripe black plum, blueberry, olive tapenade, blood orange, dried lavender, and fennel seed. An exceptional and age-worthy Syrah that will continue to gain complexity in bottle if you can resist opening it.
Awarded 96 points by Jeb Dunnuck.