The 2008 vintage started out with a hard frost in May that devastated many of our neighbors’ crops. We are blessed with a site that just doesn’t ever frost. Our site perches high above Bennett Valley and the top of Bennett Ridge and enjoys south and southwest aspects. The elevation (1200”) and slopes (15-35 degrees) provide a uniquely warm site within a cool climate appellation. With no danger of frost we start the growing season very early. With perfect drainage we often pick very late. Our distinctive site gives us one of the longest growing seasons anywhere and allows us to achieve great ripeness while retaining more complex cool climate flavor profiles. This is very evident in our 2008 Syrah (96 cases produced). The wine presents with a seductive, feminine nose redolent with ripe black fruit and a hint of lavender. On the palate the wine is both soft and very full. This is a trademark characteristic of all our red wines which are pressed in our Vaselin-Bucher basket press. There is spice, and cola notes, along with ripe, concentrated blackberry fruit. Our wines typically enjoy great fruit concentration as a result of our low yielding rootstocks and clones, our very steep, rocky site, and our strict management in the vineyard. Philippe has done a brilliant job marrying that intense fruit with 100% new French oak, and, producing a wine where the alcohol, oak and fruit are all in harmony. The result is a large wine that retains a soft mouth feel, is enjoyable to drink, and goes beautifully with food.