Austin Hope Syrah 2018
The Austin Hope Syrah continues to be a beautiful example of our Estate Vineyard. On the nose, aromas of spice and dark fruit are displayed. On the palate flavors of ripe black cherry, cassis, fresh ground pepper and hints of smoke are wonderfully integrated and yet robust. On the finish, youthful gripping tannins are perfectly balanced by the acid and long, oak driven finish.
Vineyard Notes: The 2018 growing season gave us near-normal rainfall, after a “Miracle March” of heavier rains. Spring conditions were mild with only a few weeks of exception. July brought a short period of very warm weather that slowed vine growth and berry sizing. Fortunately, moderate weather for the remainder of the growing season enabled vines to thrive. Leading up to harvest, the typical warm autumn weather provided even berry development and maturity. The result was predicted yields, high fruit quality with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.
Winemaker Notes: The 2018 blend is comprised of three Syrah clones – 383 (Hermitage, France), 470 (Garonne, France), Caldwell, and Alban (Côte Rôtie, France). The grapes were handpicked and fermented separately by vineyard block in five-ton, open-top tanks. After daily pump-overs (for color and tannin extraction) for 10 days, the tanks were tasted as well as tested for their tannins and structure for determination of their length in extended maceration. These wines were held from 30 on their skins before the being aged separately for 24 months in 70% new and 30% once used French oak barrels and puncheons. The wine was racked twice during aging and a third time to create the final blend just prior to bottling in January of 2021.
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Vintage
2018
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Varietal
Syrah
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Appellation
Paso Robles
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Alcohol
15%
