2019 Paso Robles Willow Creek District "James Berry Vineyard" Syrah
100% Syrah
With above average rainfall this growing season, James Berry Vineyard thrived in 2019, producing nearly 3 tons to the acre. Having a bit more fruit on the vines slowed ripening (a good thing for flavor development!) and resulted in a pick date later than typical, October 16th. In fact, only our Rossi Grenache, Rosella’s Syrah, and Radiant Ridge Mourvèdre were picked later in this vintage. Fully destemmed and 21 days on the skins. Aged in all French oak, only 14% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered to capture everything this grand cru site offers.
Tasting Note:
Very dark purple, bordering on opaque. Blackberry, plum, violets, earth, creosote, and tar explode from the glass. This is heady stuff! Full-bodied on the palate but not at all ponderous or oafish thanks to excellent structure and acidity. A powerful wine, flavors of blackberry, blueberry, and spring flowers persist through the long, moderately tannic finish. Lip-smacking! Optimum drinking? This is one to age. Drink 2026 (with a decant) to 2040, maybe even beyond! (MRO - 01/17/22)