2008 SYRAH
The Blackstone 2008 Winemaker’s Select Syrah is a blend of premium fruit
sourced from high-quality wine growing regions throughout California. Following
the Blackstone philosophy that various micro climates can contribute unique
and complex flavors to our wines, the 2008 Syrah is a unique and delicious
combination of Syrah, Merlot, and Sangiovese from such acclaimed appellations
as Monterey County and Paso Robles.
The 2008 growing season on California’s Central Coast was one of great variety.
Flowering was on the late side, due to winter drought and a strong frost in late
March. Summer temperatures were inconsistent, alternating between cool and
excessively hot. Smoke from fires on the North and Central Coasts brought
diminished sunlight and decreased photosynthesis, making a late year even
later. Through it all, the crops persisted and perfectly ripened with very good
color and concentrated flavors.
Mindful of both the fragility of the grapes as well as the fluctuations in the
growing season, the grapes were day and night harvested throughout September
and October of 2008. After going directly to press, the grapes underwent
malolactic fermentation in stainless steel, allowing the flavors to cleanly
integrate. They then spent 14 months in a combination of French and American
oak barrels, 100% of them new.
Our 2008 Blackstone Winemaker’s Select Syrah is full of ripe flavors and
soft, round textures with nice, mature length. It is dark in color, with black
cherry and black pepper aromas and flavors; the small amount of Merlot adds
pretty blackberry, cherry, and strawberry flavors. Oak aging contributes smoky
overtones, nice rich vanilla flavors, and plenty of smooth weight to the wine