Syrah
Blend: 100% Syrah
Vineyard & AVA: Kimsey Vineyard, Ballard Canyon, Santa Barbara
Zotovitch Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County
Alcohol: 14.8%
Aging: Enjoy now, or lay down for 10-15 years.
THE SONG
My wife, Erika, chose the song "Never Never" by Natural Vibrations, which beautifully conveys the singer's deep and unwavering love for his partner. The song begins with a declaration of the singer's devotion and commitment to his love, promising that their love will never waver, regardless of the distance between them.
The chorus powerfully emphasizes this steadfastness, with the singer asserting that he will never love another woman as much as he loves his current partner.
In essence, "Never Never" is a powerful proclamation of love and commitment. The singer's unwavering devotion to his partner is evident throughout the song, and he emphasizes that their love will endure even during the toughest times.
Vintage Notes
Overall, thanks to a relatively temperate growing season, the timing of the 2021 harvest is about a week or two later than in recent years, with most growers pulling the first of the core white wine grapes in late August. While the region has seen smoke from wildfires up north, it didn't affect the vineyards in Paso Robles.
The ongoing drought conditions are presenting growers with a double- edged sword of sorts. The good news is the dry conditions this vintage created smaller, more concentrated grapes, which is ideal for winemaking. While yields are lower, it produces more flavors, bolder colors, strong acidity, and manageable tannins. These conditions have winemakers feeling it's an epic vintage for quality.
Vinification
Fermented on native yeast, 30% whole cluster, on skin for 14-18 days. Aged for 22 months in 228L French oak barriques, 50% new.
Tasting Notes
This Syrah has all the makings of a Santa Barbara classic, with aromas of eucalyptus, green olive tapenade, black pepper, and fresh cut violets. On the palate, it delivers rich, complex flavors of dark chocolate and blackberry compote, showcasing impressive ripeness. The silky tannins give way to a lingering finish, where salted caramel and dark chocolate flavors are ever-present.
$85