2007 Perli Vineyard Syrah

“Farming in the wilderness” is how grape grower Steve Alden describes his efforts at the Perli Vineyards on the remote ridge tops near the Mendocino coast.  On a steep 2200 foot elevation slope planted to potatoes by Italian immigrants in the 1800’s he established this one of a kind vineyard.  Thin, rocky soils, warm days, cool nights and a great deal of hard work have combined to produce extraordinary Syrah grapes.  This is a classic cool climate Syrah.  It has ripe flavors of plums and black fruit with a bit of menthol and orange zest, and a hint of gaminess.  Lingering in the background are traces of dust and truffle.  And black pepper!

Technical Notes:

108 cases produced and bottled at winery

pH                                              3.85

TA                                                .55    

Alcohol                                  14.1%

Awards:

Gold Medal 2009 Mendocino County Wine Competition