Merryvale Syrah, Napa Valley, 2006

Our Syrah shows intense aromas of blackberry, bacon fat, smoke, mineral and the elusive white pepper. The mouthfeel is powerful and broad across the palate with mouth filling fruit and the finish goes on for more than a minute.

92 POINTS; Bold, rich and full-bodied, with grapey, peppery wild berry flavors that are intense, deep and persistent, ending with a touch of nutmeg and chewy tannins. Drink now through 2013. - James Laube

Fruit from our Merryvale Stanly Ranch Estate Vineyard (Syrah) and Hudson Vineyards (Viognier).

Handpicked and hand sorted; 27 days on the skins; 13 months in French Oak (65% new); bottled unfiltered.

The 2006 vintage has been described as a “growers” year by some vintners. After a late bud break due to an unseasonably cool spring, the Napa Valley experienced a record setting heat wave in July which allowed the grapes to catch up in ripening. An ideal mild weather pattern came in August and an “Indian Summer” followed into October allowing for slow and even ripening resulting in acids and sugars in perfect harmony.

We love this wine with a roasted leg of lamb, or grilled lamb chops.

Only 305 cases produced.