2019 Syrah, Richards Vineyard

One of the more incredible Syrah sites in Northern California, it is located on the eastern slopes of the Annadel Ridge. This small 2.2-acre vineyard is cared for by retired surgeon Peter Richards.The daylight at the vineyard is truncated by late sunrises and early sunsets due to its position between the Sonoma Mountain Range and the Mayacamas. This results in an extended growing season which produces an incredibly distinct nose and layered palate.

Picked the third week of September, the wine is driven by its extraordinary nose of sage, lavender and gun oil. The tannins provide incredible texture and framing for a precise palate that balances just the right amount of freshness and weight. This is a beautiful wine and certainly cellar-worthy.

96 points - Jeb Dunnuck
94 points - James Suckling