2006 Rosella’s Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Syrah
In 2006 I stayed the course with my winemaking: just a little new oak (25% new French) and used the same yeast (Grenache.) I did however; decide to go with 50% stem inclusion in the fermentation. I absolutely love the added layer of complexity and texture that stems can add to a wine, and finally had the cajones to go with more whole cluster. Not only do we have this lush fruit profile in the Rosella’s Syrah, but also we have a nice tannin layer that holds the wine upright and gives it some more presence.
The 2006 has the flavors that I love from Rosella’s: cocoa, coffee, blackberry and a kiss of citrus. What I can say that is different about the ’06 compared to years past is that it us just more exotic and plush. There is still a great acid profile that gives the wine a freshness, but the wine is just plain crazier to be honest. Winter is coming, and this wine will go great with some hearty braised dishes.