2002 Sonoma County Syrah

47%		Dry Creek Valley Syrah, Ray Teldeschi Ranch
27%		Dry Creek Valley Syrah, Unti Vineyard
20%		Knights Valley Syrah, Pelkan Ranch
6%		Dry Creek Valley Syrah, Del Carlo Ranch

pH: 3.63

T.A.: 0.625 g/100mL

Alcohol: 15.9%

Cases Produced: 380

The grapes for this wine were sourced from several vineyards - three in Dry Creek Valley and one in Knights Valley at 1000' elevation. Although the vines range in age from 6 to 15 years old, they were cropped lightly to produce highly concentrated, flavorful fruit. Before inoculation, each lot was cold soaked for five days to extract as much color and flavor as possible. At approximately 5 brix, the components were pressed off to new French oak to finish fermentation in barrel. This technique leads to much better integration of wine and oak. After 20 months in barrel, it was bottled unfined and unfiltered in July 2004.

Tasting Note: Very dark ruby purple. Explosive aromas of blackberry, plum, mocha, Christmas spice cake, and vanilla. On the palate, a smooth and full-bodied entry. The flavors echo the aromas leading to a powerful finish. Despite the size of this wine, tannins and acidity will ensure ample development in the bottle. Enjoy this wine from mid-2005 through 2010. (MRO - 6/3/04)