Already recognized as a stellar vintage, 2001 was an ideal growing season in Napa Valley. Dry winter conditions preceded a long growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen at their own pace and provide balanced, concentrated, flavorful fruit. It was the type of growing season during which additional nuances of flavor and concentration developed, making 2001 a truly exceptional vintage.
Our winemaker, Celia Welch Masyczek believes that making great wine is at least 80% in the vineyard—a great vineyard site and impeccable vineyard management determine flavor, depth, and maturity. Celia determines the picking date more by taste than analysis. The 2001 Syrah was destemmed gently, without rollers, to provide the maximum number of whole berries. After a brief period of cold-soaking, it was fermented in an open top tank and punched down by hand three times each day until dry.
We made only 35 cases of this delicious wine. Bursting with rich, black fruit. Nice long finish.