Syrah 2004

Winegrowing Information
An early bud break in the spring set the stage for one of the earliest harvests on record. A very favorable growing season was characterized by a warm spring followed by a mild summer until the end of August when temperatures warmed and stayed warm into September. The heat spell intensified the start of harvest, but because the season got off to an early start, the grapes matured nicely, and we were able to pick exceptional quality grapes at peak flavor development with highly desirable acid retention in the fruit. The grapes for the 2004 come from our first block of Syrah that was planted right after the devastating fire of 1996. With a northwestern exposure and located at a lower elevation, this is one of the coolest spots on the property. The climate here mimics the conditions found in the northern Rhone region of France. The soils are composed of volcanic rock and vines here struggle through multiple layers for water and nutrients. Vineyard Manager Phil Coturri carefully planned the layout and planting with a tight spacing of 4'x 8'. Hermitage and Cote Rotie clones were chosen for their suitability to the site. Yields are a mere .9 tons per acre.

Winemaker Tasting Notes
Boasts a saturated black-purple, dense, dark, inky color. Blackberries, black raspberries, blueberries and roasted plums accented with spicy notes of cinammon and hints of an appealing char and smokiness predominate. On the palate, the wine is multifaced and complex with layers of concentrated flavors of briary black fruits - blackberries, damson plums and hints of black cherries. This wine holds its focus while picking up a nice touch of beefy and bacon fat flavors. Ripe integrated tannins complement the oak notes and accentuate the finish.

Grape Source
100% Estate grown Syrah at elevations from 1100' to 1450'
Sonoma Valley
Kamen Estate Vineyards

Production and Technical Data

Alcohol:	15.5%
Production:	100 cases
Release Date:	February 2007