2001
SYRAH ROLL RANCH
California
This wine is an example of trying to craft the best that a vineyard
site can produce. We've found that the way to produce the best
possible product is to repress any natural thrifty tendency, and
focus on doing our best work no matter the cost. Ultimately it's
more gratifying.
This wine was a true test of our standards. As you probably know,
the Roll Ranch is always popular, and sells out quickly. In 2001
we had a very late frost in the spring that caused the vines to
have a small crop and a later harvest. Two separate clones of
syrah are planted at Roll, and each reacted differently to the
conditions of the growing season. The "estrella" clone was perfect.
It produced an intense, peppery and complete wine, while the other
clone, "Durrell," made a delicious but altogether facile wine.
There was really very little of the Durrell that could be added
to the estrella without diluting the excellent estrella. I knew
I would notice if the two wines were blended, so I didn't.
I have received only rave reviews from friends who have tasted
this wine, so I'm sure you will like it too. It is even better
than the delicious 2000. The only problem is that, because of
the selection process, there is very little available.
High Resolution Label