Mike officer - 2009 Winter Pre-Release letter
2007 Russian River Valley "Papa's Block" Syrah
At 78 years-old, Bill, affectionately known as "Papa" to his three sons and nine grandchildren, continues to be the caretaker of the Carlisle block at Atoosa's Vineyard. We're not sure what kind of mojo he's working out there but it seems to be working! Picked October 9th, yields were a touch over 2 tons to the acre. Thirty-three percent of the fruit was not destemmed to increase complexity and structure. Aged in all French oak, 27% new, and bottled unfined and unfiltered.

An opaque black-purple core leads to a deep ruby rim. Head-turning aromas of mulberry, black olive, licorice, and violets titillate the senses. On the palate, full-bodied but smooth as silk. Nary a rough edge to be found. After pulling a barrel sample to write this note, I went back for seconds! Enjoy this hedonistic wine (and raise a glass to Papa!) from release through 2014.

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