2007 Bennett Valley "Cardiac Hill" Syrah

100%

Syrah

pH: 3.67

T.A.: 0.56 g/100mL

Alcohol: 14.2%

Cases Produced: 520

This year’s Cardiac Hill is a blend of four syrah clones from Bennett Valley with the majority of fruit coming from a steep, rocky north-facing hillside. Yields were a modest 3 tons to the acre. Fermented indigenously with 33% whole clusters to increase structure and aromatic lift. Aged in 28% new oak and bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Tasting Note: Dark ruby-purple. Nearly opaque. A perfumed nose of blackberry, violets, black olive, and pepper. Full-bodied but not heavy thanks to refreshing acidity and invigorating tannins. While obviously Californian, something very Northern Rhone-like about this wine. Cornas perhaps? Enjoy from release through 2020. (MRO – 07/17/09)