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It seems that Syrah and Rhone wines in general have yet to be widely accepted by the general wine consuming public. Furthermore, the style of Syrah most popular now seems to be what I call the "Aussie" style. I describe this style as having fruity aromas, slightly sweet flavors, low acidity, and easy to drink. Wines from the hotter climates of California are also made in this style.

This Alisos Vineyard Syrah and other wines from cooler areas, like most of Santa Barbara County, have a more reserved style. Lovers of wines from the Rhone area of France, particularly Northern Rhone, find these versions much more to their liking.

The wine is very dark in color. The aromas are subdued upon the first smell but gradually begin to open up with time in the glass. The aromas are a mixture of spices, red fruit and hints of tobacco. On the palate the wine is immediately rich, with bright fruit flavors, but becomes leaner with excellent acidity. The tannins are very mild, and the oak is so well integrated as to not be evident. This is a wine that definitely needs time in the bottle to fully reveal all of its charms.

Enjoy with a variety of grilled meats, or a pasta dish with duck sausage, truffle oil and parmesan cheese would make a perfect pairing.

Rick Longoria, Winemaker
March 1st, 2009

Composition: 100% Syrah – Alisos Vineyard
Production: 172 cases
Alcohol by volume: 15.9%
pH: 3.68
Titratable acidity: 0.60 g/100ml
Cellaring potential: Four to seven years
Bottle price: $34

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