Top Barrel Syrah is 100% Amalie Robert Estate grown Syrah. Among our 30 acres of Pinot Noir, we have planted 0.80 acres (1,188 vines to be exact) of Syrah. This bottling is from the single best barrel of Syrah from the vintage - The Top Barrel.
We grow Syrah right along side Pinot Noir, and most of the vineyard work is very similar. The primary difference is that we have to wait until November to harvest. We think it is worth the wait.
Syrah is a very adaptive variety, and much like Pinot Noir, reflects its growing conditions. Syrah is grown in the hottest parts of the southern Hemisphere where it is known as "Shiraz" and a bit farther south into the cool climate of New Zealand as well. The entire west coast of the United States grows Syrah from California, to the warm areas of eastern Washington and now very small plantings in Oregon's Willamette Valley.
However, the birthplace of Syrah seems to be the Northern Rhône Valley. Recent DNA research shows Syrah to be a cross between Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche. Both of these varieties are indigenous to France. Syrah is planted from the cool regions of the Northern Rhône where it is bottled as a single varietal, to the tip of the Southern Rhône where it is often blended with other varietals.
The Vintage: The 2010 growing season was another welcome cool climate vintage. The finished wines reflect the full aroma and flavor development of our picture perfect October weather. The season's 1,722 degree days are represented in the lower alcohol levels for 2010. You can read the full vintage update and our harvest "After Action Report" on our website at this link:
http://www.amalierobert.com/2010_julian_calendar.htm
Tasting Notes: Romulan red taunts smoked duck bacon, black olive, Cuban tobacco, minerals, tar, incense and freshly tilled earth. Palate staining dark fruits permeate the ever changing and remarkably suave weight and texture. The palate is then subjugated to the kaleidoscope finish of deeply intentioned cool climate syrah, racing acidity, evolved stem tannin and a lot more than a little attitude. 24 cases produced.
Suggested food pairings: Bacon wrapped Buffalo Filet Mignon seared to perfection and finished with fresh Rosemary. Pair with strong cheeses and weak knees.
