Donelan Richards Family Vineyard Syrah Sonoma Valley 2012

Richards Family Vineyard is nestled in the Schultz Valley near Annadel State Park in Sonoma Valley. While generally perceived as a warmer region, this east-facing isolated parcel buttressed to the west by the Sonoma Mountains is surprisingly calm. The Richards Syrah has historically been the slowest wine to evolve in the barrel and is best when the winemaker steps aside and lets the terroir do the heavy lifting. The stress on the vines during the growing season has produced a wine intensely steeped in a sense of place, this small but majestic vineyard surrounded by verdant redwood trees.

The exceptional growing season of the 2012 vintage shapes the 2012 Richards Syrah. It has an excellent fruit set, balanced canopy, and slow, even ripening, leaving little for a winemaker to desire. The aromatics remain fresh and youthful, yet below the surface lies mystery and complexity – herb-encrusted lamb, graphite, freshly-cut lavender and cherry liqueur. The wine's palate starts with a distinct sensation, like the first spoonful of chocolate mousse, followed by a complex and structured mid-palate that cradles a complete and compelling finish.