2016 Clarke Vineyard Syrah

The Clarke Vineyard in American Canyon has a cool breezy climate that brings out the depth and finesse of the Syrah grape. Clone 877 is used for density and raspberry-chocolate aromas, while Clone 383 adds extra color and a smoky complexity to the wine. A small amount of Viognier was co-fermented with the Syrah to add to its exotic appeal. The fruit was harvested on October 8, at 28.8 Brix, and pressed on October 22. It went to barrel two days later and stayed in for 10 months. The wine clarified on its own, so no fining or filtration was necessary at bottling. Big fruit and a soft palate characterize the Syrah from Clarke and in 2016, it again has the show stealing exotic charm that it casts every time a bottle is opened.