Santa Barbara County
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Granted, it is a struggle to ripen Syrah at Duvarita Vineyard. Planted west of the Santa Rita Hills appellation near the town of Lompoc, it wasn’t thought to be possible. The gentle southerly slope provides some reprieve, but the fruiting zone of the trellising has to be low—partly to protect the vines from the relentless wind, and partly to capture some radiant heat and light from the poor sandy soil. We admire the throw-caution-to-the-wind spirit of plantings like Duvarita. We also find these cool, marginal locations provide a more vivid and unique expression of vintage. That said, what’s consistent with this wine is it’s voluminous intensity, which was not expected from such a cool climate spot. It showcases elegant power and savory depth coupled with high-toned acidity, and has all the bones to age well.
Blend: 100% Syrah | Alc: 13.5% | Vinification: Open top fermentation | Barrel Aging: 18 Months in neutral French Oak | Total Production: 191 Cases
Press Reviews
Antonio Galloni’s Vinous
“The 2014 Syrah Duvarita Vineyard is a wine for readers who enjoy peppery, savory Syrahs. Game, smoke, cracked pepper, licorice and lavender literally jump from the glass. Bold and pungent to the core, the 2014 exudes richness and pure power. The firm, incisive tannins need time to soften, but this is another wine with a bright future. Readers should expect a virile, imposing Syrah. Fasten your seatbelt, the Duvarita is another total knockout from Adam Tolmach and Ojai. The 2014 has begun to shut down since I first tasted it about a month ago. “- AG 95+ Points
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“From a site formerly known as Presidio, the 2014 Syrah Duvarita Vineyard is an elegant, lively and juicy effort that gives up loads of blue fruits, cracked pepper and floral notes in a medium-bodied, elegant and slightly fleeting profile. Like the 2013, it gains depth and richness with time in the glass, has bright acidity and a clean finish.”- JD 90 Points