2004 SYRAH ROLL RANCH
California

Roll Ranch is planted with five acres of syrah and two acres of viognier. From the beginning in 1995 we've blended a small portion of viognier (2%) with the syrah, as is done in the northern Rhone appellation of Cote Rotie. In this case the exotic aromatics of viognier lift the otherwise heavy syrah scents and give the wine a whole new dynamic spin. I have a profound fondness for cooler climate syrahs, but this one is always the exception to my preference-it is so delicious.

In 2004 the growing conditions were perfect at Roll Ranch, and vineyard manager Martin Ramirez achieved a new level of outstanding quality. This allowed us to make one of the finest wines we have made from this vineyard. There is the usual voluptuousness that Roll displays, but in the 2004 there are lovely tannins that have a wonderful texture and give the wine a great sense of balance. It is one of those wines that is easy to enjoy now, yet has everything needed for aging gracefully for many years.