1996 Syrah, Central Coast
Vintage
1996
Price
$18
Release Date
September 1998
Appellation
Central Coast
Availability
Select Markets Nationally
Vineyards
- Santa Maria - Bien Nacido
- Central Coast - Shell Creek
Grapes
- 90% Syrah
- 10% Petite Sirah
Vintage
This Syrah was harvested from two distinctly different areas, Bien Nacido Vineyard with a long growing season and cool climate, and Shell Creek with a much warmer climate and shorter growing season. Shell Creek provided full fruit flavor and aromas while Bien Nacido is less forward but with complex layers and herb and black pepper flavors.
Vinification
Four lots from the two vineyards were crushed and individually cold-soaked at 55 degrees Fahrenheit for two days prior to fermentation to extract color and intensity while controlling tannins. Fermentation took place in small open-top fermentors for 9-12 days with daily punching down at temperatures up to 85 degrees. The lots were aged in French and American barrels for 16 months. The wines were blended and bottled, in July 1998. Alcohol: 14.1%, total acidity .7, pH 3.64, residual sugar .01. 1,440 cases produced.
Tasting Notes
Complex aromas of black fruit, smoky tar and dried herb. The mouthfeel is soft with flavors of black cherry, herb and sweet earth. The finish is long and noted by ripe fruit. Should age well over the next 5-7 years.