Wines

2006 Syrah, North Coast

  • AVA: North Coast
  • Released: May

VINTAGE | The 2006 vintage was truly a year won in the vineyard. A record 10-day heat spike in July had
growers nervous about sunburn on the ripening grapes. Through meticulous management we tried to avoid leafing, and used the canopy to protect the grapes from direct sun exposure and high temperatures. This technique allowed the grapes to ripen more slowly and produce more concentrated flavors. Overall, this vintage produced excellent quality fruit, despite all the challenges.

WINEMAKING | Grapes from both warm and cool vineyard sites were hand-selected to bring added complexity to the finished wine. Once harvested, the grapes were crushed and individually cold-soaked prior to fermentation to extract color and intensity while reigning in tannins. Each lot was aged in oak barrels for 14 months. The wines were then blended and bottled in January of 2007.

BENZIGER FARMING PRACTICES | At Benziger Family Winery, we are dedicated to winemaking that reveals the true character of the vineyard, the varietal and the vintage in certified-sustainable, -organically
grown and-Biodynamic® wines. Our wines are defined by the individuality of the vineyard and the passion
of the people who make them. Through our commitment to natural farming and environmentally and socially responsible business practices, we strive for sustainability and the preservation of our Sonoma
Mountain family winery for generations to come.This wine was made with grapes grown with certified
sustainable farming methods. Our sustainable philosophy promotes natural vineyard management,
restoration of the land and biodiversity on the estate. We believe these practices result in wines that reflect the authentic flavors, aromas and character of the vineyard.

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Biodynamics

The highest form of organic farming, Biodynamics takes a holistic view of the farm as a living organism. Homeopathic applications enhance soil vitality, biodiversity helps balance the ecosystem and a closed nutrient system allows a site to develop true terrioir. 3rd party certified by the Demeter Assoication.

Biodynamics at Benziger
 

Organics

Organic grape growing avoids the use of synthetic chemicals and uses natural methods like crop rotation, tillage and natural composts to maintain soil health as well as natural methods to control weeds, insects and other pests.
 

Organics at Benziger

 

Certified Sustainable

Benziger’s third-party certified-sustainable program is one of the most comprehensive of any single winery in the country. The program, which emphasizes environmentally sound growing methods, such as biodiversity, soil revitalization and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the first step in transitioning a vineyard from conventional to organic.

Certified Sustainable
wines at Benziger