Upper Ojai, Ventura County

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.

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

“The stunningly full-bodied, rich, opulent, ripe 2004 Syrah Roll Ranch offers lovely aromas of melted licorice, creme de cassis, blackberries, violets, and underbrush. It is deep, full-bodied, velvety-textured, and as always, the most forward and evolved of the Ojai Syrahs. Enjoy it over the next decade or more.” – RP 94 Points

Wine Advocate #166 Aug 2006

“From Ventura County, I always like the suppleness, accessibility, and velvety tannins of the Roll Ranch Syrah. The inky/purple-colored 2004 possesses plenty of tannin, but it is such an opulent, fleshy wine that the tannin is well-concealed. This soft, up-front Syrah will be delicious young, and last for 7-8 years.” – RP (90-92 Points)

Stephen Tanzers International Wine Cellar

“Deep ruby. Lush boysenberry and blueberry on the nose, with subtle florality adding complexity. Stains the palate with ripe dark berry liqueur flavors but possesses impressive chewy texture, clarity and precision, and finishes with outstanding clarity and sweetness. It’s rare to find this much fruit power with such balance. Tolmach noted that he seeks to make wines “that are balanced and complex, and that don’t need to beat you up to make their point.” Drinking wonderfully now.” – JR 92 Points