Syrah 2005

Winegrowing Information
The Syrah clone for our original planting at Kamen Vineyards came from Cote Rotie and Hermitage via John Alban’s plantings in Edna Valley. In 2005, the growing season in Sonoma was charac­terized by above average rainfall. By mid-June, our vineyards had already received a record 3 inches of rain. Temperatures did not warm until late spring causing a later than usual bud break and a longer growing cycle. One of the benefits of the heavy rains was that our reservoirs were full; however our vineyards did not require irrigation. The very wet conditions throughout the spring caused very rigorous vine growth. Temperatures were moderate throughout the growing season with a few nicely spaced heat spikes in September and October. We were able to control vigor, and the plants never went through stress. Our harvest started on October 14 with subsequent picks on October 20 and 25. Berries were larger than usual and the fruit was incredibly lush resulting in very opulent wines.

Winemaker Tasting Notes
Our 2005 Syrah is a very deep, dark, saturated purple with lovely, highly perfumed aromas of rich, ripe black fruits - black berries, black cherries with notes of spice and earthiness. Expansive and multi-layered, elements of licorice and white pepper heighten its overall sense of richness. Lush, full-bodied and opulent on the palate, the wine displays sweet tannins, notes of crème de cassis, a creamy texture, along with appealing bacon fat notes. The wine has a long, lingering finish and has outstanding aging potential.

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

Production and Technical Data

Alcohol:	15.1%
Production:	200 cases cases
Release Date:	March 2008