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2002 Thompson Vineyard Syrah

2002 Thompson Vineyard Syrah Wine Details
Price: $32.00 per bottle

Description: Thompson Vineyard is home to some of the most sought-after Syrah grapes in California. Planted on its own rootstock to the esteemed Estella clone, this meticulously farmed vineyard keeps its yields low (about 2.5 tons per acre). 75% of the grapes used to make this wine were destemmed directly into 1.5 ton open top fermenters. The remaining grapes were placed in the fermenters in whole clusters. The wine was punched down three times daily for 17 days then pressed straight into neutral French barrels for one year of aging. No new oak was used on this wine thus allowing the terroir of the Thompson Vineyard to shine through. Almost black in color, this spicy Syrah has a solid, intense texture and rich flavors of blackberry, espresso, and smoked meats. It is nicely balanced with moderate acidity, medium-full, fine-grained tannins, and a long finish on the palate. Look for alluring hints of violets, licorice, and coca on the nose. This Syrah pairs beautifully with grilled and roasted red meats, especially lamb, roasted chicken, duck, prime rib and steak.

Varietal Definition
Syrah:
Syrah is the eight hundred pound gorilla of Rhone grapes! In the vineyard and the winery, Syrah is typically an easy grape to work with - healthy, early ripening, resistant to mildew and rot; suitable for winemaking in a variety of styles. The wines from Syrah are tannic without being harsh. The wines will have a taste and smell of dark blue fruit like blackberries and blackcurrant, with a strong spicy side where one can find freshly ground pepper and other spices. Syrah is famous for its part in the French blends, such as Côtes du Rhone and Châteauneuf du Pape.


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