Hester Creek Syrah 2020

Deep garnet in the glass, this is a Syrah that doesn't mess around. The aromatics are a dead giveaway for cool-climate Syrah: cracked black pepper, dark berries, and that distinctive smoky, herbal note that separates great Syrah from merely good red wine. It's full-bodied but not overblown on the palate – a careful balance of ripe blackberry, a hint of leather, and those trademark peppery notes. The tannins are firm but not aggressive, suggesting this wine has some serious aging potential. What's particularly interesting is how it reflects its vintage. The moderate heat of 2020 shows in the rich, concentrated fruit, but there's still enough acid to keep things in check. It's the kind of wine that would pair beautifully with anything from a robust barbecue to a winter stew. Definitely a wine for those who appreciate a bit of complexity in their glass. Tasted September 2023.

Process: Crafted in the Côte-Rôtie style, co-fermented with 15% Viognier to highlight the beautifully fresh floral and spice notes. Aged in 60% American oak and 40% French oak barrels (2/3 were neutral barrels) for 14 months.

Organic: N/A

Biodynamic: N/A

Sustainable: N/A

Vegan: N/A

Regeneratively Farmed: N/A