2018 My Father's Syrah

THE VINEYARD

Dutton Ranch farms more than 80 separate vineyards in the Russian River Valley. Multi-generations and a love of the land are at the center of everything we do at Dutton Estate. This vineyard designated Syrah is a perfect example. The vineyard was originally Tracy Dutton’s father’s property and is now managed and farmed by Joe Dutton, his son-in-law. The soil there is perfect for Syrah with moderate drainage and an average depth of 25-40 inches plus a base of old valley alluvium from mixed sedimentary, volcanic ash, and rock sources. It is a certified Sonoma County Sustainably-Farmed and Fish Friendly vineyard.

THE WINEMAKING

The fruit from My Father's Vineyard was hand-harvested towards the end of October and cold-soaked for 5 days for maximum color and light tannin extraction. The fruit was punched down once daily during the cold soak period and up to three times daily during primary fermentation. The wine then aged for 18 months in 50% new American oak.

TASTING NOTES

The nose begins with dark, rich notes of plum and spice that open to true varietal typicity of leather, cured meats, and sweet tobacco. A bold, full -bodied wine, this Syrah is rich and smooth through to the finish with its powdery tannic structure. Deep, dark fruit flavors are echoed on the palate as are the notes of tobacco and smoked meat,, finishing with a smidge of fennel and peppermint from the American oak.