Vineyard and Winemaking Notes

We planted the south slope of Acorn Hill in 1991 to a mix of Syrah clones. One selection was sourced from an old vine Syrah vineyard in Mendocino County’s McDowell Valley; another came from an old vineyard in Australia; a third selection originated in the famous Chapoutier vineyard in the Rhone Valley of France. We also planted Viognier, an aromatic white grape from Cote Rotie, among the Syrah vines. In 2008 for our 16th harvest, the vines produced less than 3½ tons per acre of flavorful Syrah and Viognier, which we harvested in two separate lots that were inoculated with two different yeast strains after 3-4 days cold soak. The long cool summer allowed flavors to fully develop. Colder weather compared to 2007 produced a wine that is more restrained than the ’07, and we expect it will be earlier maturing. The wine was aged in a combination of French, American, and Hungarian oak barrels that Bill carefully selected to enhance the Syrah flavors and add toasty notes of vanilla and spice.

Tasting Notes

Deep vine-ripened blackberry aromas meld with toasty oak, a rich spiciness, and perfumey floral notes. The smooth entry reveals juicy blackberry, ripe cherry, spicy pepper, and creamy mocha. Hints of blueberry, tobacco, and a touch of cocoa enhance the finish as the flavors linger on. A solid structure offers slightly chewy tannins that will further integrate with aging. This robust Syrah pairs well with roasted meats, hearty tomato-based dishes, or a comforting stew or cassoulet.

Composition

A single-vineyard field-blend of 98% Syrah and 2% Viognier.

Appellation

Russian River Valley

Vineyard Designation

Alegría Vineyards

Harvest Dates

October 13 & 17, 2008

Brix at Harvest

25°

Barrel Aging

20 months

Barrel Program

48% French, 45% American,7% Hungarian; 31% new barrels

Bottled

July 12, 2010

Alcohol

14.2%

pH

3.75

T.A.	0.668g/100ml

Case Production

469

Release Date

Summer 2011

Price

$33

Availability

YES

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