Fall Release DuMOL Estate Vineyard Syrah
2018

Winemaker’s Notes

Our spectacular two-acre Estate Syrah parcel sits 10 miles from the Pacific, nestled amongst some of west Sonoma County’s most famous Pinot vineyards, just uphill from our Wildrose Pinot Estate. Every year, this micro-bottling delivers tremendous character and complexity in a classic DuMOL style: intensity with elegance, depth with detail, texture with freshness. It possesses more finesse than the richer Eddie’s Patch, but, at its heart, it’s a serious, multifaceted cool-climate Syrah that is among the most pure and perfumed expressions of the variety one could hope for.

The site’s gently sloped south-facing hillside and shallow, sandy Goldridge soils are the foundation of the wine’s character. The old, small-berried “Syrah Noir” vine selection that I planted in 2000 contributes lift, nuance and pedigree to the wine’s story. This outstanding 2018 vintage ranks among our finest expression of these mature low-yielding vines.

Beautiful dried flower, cracked peppercorn and inky, black fruit aromas are underscored by subtle elements of thyme, black olive and anise that flow through the entire wine. The palate is succulent and plush with dark, blue fruits, and great drive and presence. An overriding sense of clarity persists through the long pepper-filled finish, gently interwoven with spice and cocoa dust. Silkiness is offset by round tannins that ensure long aging potential. Drink from mid 2021 to 2032, gently decanting an hour before serving as desired. Bottled unfiltered.

Andy Smith