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2007 "Californio" Syrah
| 750ml | $50.00 |
Eliciting thoughts of markets in the far east, the exotic aromas, textures and color of our syrah enchants us from year to year.
A melange of characteristics develop from our three selections: Alban, Syrah Noir and 174. The Alban provides elegance very uncommon in syrah while the Syrah Noir selection balances Albans elegance with a rustic depth of plum, spice and good tannins. The 174 follows with excellent depth and distinct black cherry and sweet tobacco characters.
2007 Californio
• Region: Napa Valley
• Appellation: Los Carneros
• Vineyard: Hyde Vineyard
• Age of vines: 7 to 14 years
• Geography: Eastern edge of the Carneros District
• Exposure: South by southeast
• Soil: Shallow loam over clay hardpan
• Acreage: 2.23 acres
• Production: 517 cases
• Harvest dates: September 15 & 25, 2007
• Bottling date: March 25, 2009
• Retail: $50
CALIFORNIO
The name Californio pays tribute to the early California settlers, or Californios, who brought Old World sophistication and elegance to the western shores of the New World. As decedents of the early Californios, the Hyde and de Villaine families strive to produce a Syrah that highlights one of California’s premier growing sites, Hyde Vineyard, while embodying the elegance of the families’ Old World heritage.
VINTAGE NOTES
Low amounts of early season precipitation gave way to the overriding theme of the 2007 season: consistently dry and cool weather. The dryness resulted in early stress throughout all HdV vineyard blocks. A long, arid growing season and our philosophy of dry farming were the keys to a successful vintage. As a consequence, 2007 emphasizes concentration and depth in accord with the HdV trademarks of elegance, balance and minerality.
WINEMAKER NOTES
The nose emanates a vibrant mix of sweet spice and fresh black fruit lifted by an elegant touch of oak. There is a fresh intensity accompanied by black cherry as well as a unique earthy character reminiscent of old world Syrah. Layers of fruit and spice add focus and definition to a wine full of energy. Deep and concentrated, this wine coats your palate and lingers with a fresh finish.
Our 2007 Californio Syrah will age elegantly for 12 years but it will also please at the table in its early age.
-- Stéphane Vivier, Winemaker, HdV Wines
