Sta. Rita Hills

There is nothing else quite like the striking aromas of very cool-climate syrah. This wine’s aroma is so wild and peppery it’s hard to put down the glass. It’s nice when a wine is so captivating that you feel compelled to taste it again and again to fully understand all of its complexities.

Blend: 100% Syrah | Alcohol: 14.5% | Vinification: 20% New French Oak | Barrel Aging: 22 Months

Press Reviews

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Wine Advocate #172 Aug 2007

“From the cool Santa Rita Hills, the 2004 Syrah Melville reveals classic blackberry, blueberry, charcoal, acacia flower, and bacon fat aromas. Stunningly rich, full-bodied, thick, and juicy with a smoky character in the mouth that is not apparent in the fruit-laden nose, this is a beautifully proportioned, full-bodied Syrah that should drink nicely for 10-15 years.” – RP 94 Points

Wine Advocate #172 Aug 2007

“The 2004 Syrah Melville Vineyard offers pure blueberry and blackberry fruit in its projected aromatics, exuberant density and richness, and an opulent, full-bodied, fleshy mouthfeel. Well-balanced, long, and deep, it should drink well for 7-10 years.” – RP (90-93 Points)

Stephen Tanzers International Wine Cellar

“Ruby-red. Deep cherry and blackberry scents are complicated by licorice and smoky herbs. Sweet kirsch, musky underbrush and minerals are complicated by a kelp-like herbal character, with the back end showing gentle tannins and a slow-building mocha quality. Give this deeply concentrated wine some air, or cellar time.” – JR 91+ Points