Syrah was first established as a noble grape in the Rhône Valleyof Southwest France. In the Northern Rhône, where it is the predominant varietal, syrah is crafted into much sought after Hermitage, valued for its intensity and age-ability. Syrah has since circumnavigated the globe; substantial plantings can be found inCalifornia, Oregon, Australia, and South Africa. The varietal tends to have small clusters of small berries and an exceptionally vigorous canopy. An overly dense canopy canrob sunshine from the fruit, restrict airflow increasing the incidence of rotand monopolize the plants energy away from the principal task of fruit-ripening. The grapes for 2005 Terra d’Oro Syrah came from our Burke Ranch outside of Plymouth. The vines are trained onto a quadrilateral trellis system. The small clusters have more length of vine to grow along, increasing the crop and encouraging the plant to concentrate on fruit ripening rather than shoot growth. Furthermore, growing syrah on “quads”corrals the still vigorous canopy providing optimal sun and windexposure.
Once harvested, the little berries are destemmed and only slightly crushed before half are sent to stainless steel fermentors and half are sent tohalf-ton bins. As is tradition in Côte Rôtie, a small amount of Viognier (a white varietal native to the Rhône ) is fermented with the syrah. This co-fermentation and co-pigmentation intensifies aromatics in the wine and ironically darkens the robe of the finished wine. The stainless steel tanks are pumped over daily and receive multiple drain and return treatments to maximize extraction of soluble solids. The open bins are punched down daily by hand to preserve to delicate fruit flavors and aromas. After pressing, the wine is aged in Hungarian and American small oak barrels forover a year.
Terra d’Oro 2005 Syrah is a study in elegance. The aromatic silhouette of grape and fig aromas is swathed in violets, rosewater and citrus zest. Blackberry and black currant flavors are generously spiced with sandalwood and white pepper. The mouthfeel is supple but with a firmness to the finish appropriate for such intensity of flavor. Enjoy with pancetta wrapped duck breast, gourmet lamb burgers or your favorite recipe for casoulette.
