cropthreash


Handmade wines since 1983.

 

 

1998 SYRAH, THOMPSON VINEYARD
Santa Barbara County

 

I first worked with Thompson Vineyard grapes in 1994. Though they were good, I did not buy them again the next year because I felt over-extended in my commitments for syrah grapes at the time. Boy, did I ever kick myself for my timidity, because this has turned out to be a terrific vineyard. Located in the moderately cool Los Alamos area (cooler than Roll Ranch, warmer than Bien Nacido), the vineyard lies on a low hill that has soils that are so deinvigorating that they prevent the vines from over-cropping in even the most prolific vintages.

Three years later, and after much pleading, we were again able to buy from the vineyard in 1997. We made this into Syrah "Henry Daniel", a one-time-only label commemorating the birth of my second son. We now offer up this 1998 as a new addition to our vineyard-designated series of syrahs.

Consistency is the hallmark of Thompson Vineyard, and this wine is every bit as compelling as our 1997. While a tad less brazen, it is more complete, and has a darker color and a deep fruity plumminess. It possesses wonderfully textured, mouth-coating tannins, which will ensure it a very long life. This syrah has a smoky, bacon-y aroma that is unique to this vineyard site, and is so enticing when I taste it, I find myself going back again and again for another glassful. I think this wine, which really needs five to ten years of cellaring, turned out great.