2020 The Hilt Syrah

I have always been fiercely proud of our team's seemingly boundless quest of discovery. We have, since day one, always pushed the envelope and never rested on our laurels. We like challenges and above all else we love to learn more about the special properties that we are honored to farm. In 2016, we looked into the hills of our extreme western properties and asked ourselves, what we should plant on a cold and windblown block of pure diatomaceous earth? Sun-loving Syrah of course. Why not? We had faith we could ripen it... barely. For our team, that is where the excitement is; in that area where things barely reach that maturity. Where black fruit is met with spice, savory notes and salinity. Since our initial expedition into the world of Sta Rita Hills Syrah in 2018, we are now seeing the true potential of this grape which absolutely deserves a place on the pedestal with its neighbors, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as the most expressive grapes in clearly communicating their site of origin. These Syrah blends represent the beginnings of our foray into cold climate Syrah. Bring on the dark fruit, the spice, the game and the funk... it's all here wrapped in a silky and chalky package. - Matt Dees, Winemaker