2008 Russian River Valley "Papa's Block" Syrah

100%

Syrah

pH: 3.73

T.A.: 0.58 g/100mL

Alcohol: 15.1%

Cases Produced: 214

In 2008, frost hit hard at Papa’s Block, reducing yields to just over 2 tons to the acre. But while quantity was low, quality was off the charts! Thirty-three percent of the fruit was not destemmed to increase complexity and structure. Aged in all French oak, 28% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Tasting Note: Dark ruby-purple. A perfumed, captivating nose of blackberry and cassis is highlighted by savory herbal notes (no doubt from the whole clusters used in fermentation). The wine enters smoothly, quickly enveloping the palate with its creamy, berry goodness. This is already very difficult to resist. In fact, we think this wine is better than the much-heralded 2007. Enjoy from release through 2018. (MRO – 3/15/10)