Manzoni Estate Vineyard

Paraiso boasts the first plantings of Syrah in the Santa Lucia Highland appellation. In a protected canyon about halfway up the mountainous estate is Block 13. The Syrah vines here benefit from slightly higher temperatures, while still expressing the typical SLH cool-climate character. Traditionally the grapes from this block emulate Northern Rhone in style, a Hermitage – like structure with spice married to our bright Monterey berry character.

 

Due to a warm and dry spell in February our grape vines came out of dormancy early signaling the start to the growing season. However, March saw two snowy days and below average temperatures that persisted until the middle of July. This slowed maturation in the vineyard to a snail’s pace delaying harvest until late October when we finally experienced our typical Indian summer.

Syrah grapes were crushed into one ton fermentors where they “cold soaked” for 72 hours prior to inoculation with two specialized yeasts known for their ability to produce intensely fruity wines. After fermentation the wine was pressed into a combination of new and one year old French oak barrels where it matured for 10 months.

 

This wine has ample tannins and tremendous concentration of fruit. Slow simmered black cherry, black licorice, fresh cranberry, and ground white pepper accentuate the nose, while a moderate amount of caramel is evident in the flavor, a result of new French barrels. Due to its viscosity and briary character this wine will hold its own with intensely flavored dishes such as stews, grilled meats and strong cheeses.