2006 Windsor Oaks Vineyard Syrah
(Windsor, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County)

The site was originally planted in the 1970s and 80s by Balverne Winery and its winemaker John Kongsgaard. The syrah is a newer planting that sits on the Russian River side of the property and is planted to the compelling Estrella/Chapoutier clone. Soils are a mix of light sands and gravels with larger round river stones punctuating the rows, which themselves are remnants from an old watercourse. The Syrah yielded 2.25 tons per acre.

The nose is broad and highly expressive, with notes of aged meat, violet powder, and currant. With air the wine becomes steadily more perfumed, with subtle hints of green peppercorn and dark chocolate. Its powerful flavors glide through a long finish marked by violets, pepper, and currant. This Syrah is structured by chalky tannins that will match an array of heartier dishes.