Riverain

2016 SYRAH BENNETT VALLEY CARDIAC HILL

The fruit quality from Cardiac Hill Vineyard in Bennett Valley has been spectacular. In 2016 the yields were still down by 50%, so we do not have much (106 cases) to go around this time. We still vinify this in a traditional Northern Rhone style, meaning older oak barrels, 35% whole cluster for spice and structure but still plenty of dark California fruit.

This wine has not yet been scored, but here is Jeb’s note on the 2015:

“The Riverain Syrah Cardiac Hill Vineyard comes from a site in Bennet Valley in Sonoma County and offers an exotic (I thought of Guigal's Côte Rôtie La Mouline more than once) bouquet of plums, cassis, lavender, spring flowers, and bacon fat. This incredibly sexy Syrah is backward and primordial yet has full-bodied richness, a layered, opulent texture, terrific balance, and an undeniably flamboyant, sexy profile. Hide bottles for 2-3 years and enjoy over the following decade.”

There is a 3 bottle minimum for all orders, in which mix and match is included.