Rowland Wines

1997 RED TRIANGLE SYRAH The Pepper Mill After two years of clonal research, three years of vine maturation then add another two years on for the winemaking process; this is how long it takes to bring an idea to fruition in the Napa Valley. Seven years to wait until I have a product that in the wine circles is almost a synonym for my home country: Shiraz and Australia. You may well ask," what did the two years of clonal research yield?" Interestingly if you follow the roots of some of California's best Syrah vineyards they almost all originate back to the old Meridian vineyard in Santa Barbara. The clone of this grandfather vineyard to many modern day plantings arrived here via Australia. The Red Triangle vineyard Syrah exhibits intense aromas of fresh cracked pepper, ripe plump plum with a dusting of earth tones for intrigue. A real treat for those who appreciate a big full-bodied red. Yet despite its concentration the palate is still soft, round, generous and rich... all the hallmarks of a Hermitage and of a great Syrah. Notes and Stats Yield: Removal of fruit at verasion resulted in a low 4 ton per acre. Vineyard Location: Coombsville 100%. Vineyard Data: vertical trellis with deleafing around the clusters for extra color and flavor. Time on Skins: 21 days on skins. Fermentation Type: 36hr cold soak, 100% Whole berry, open top fermentation. Yeast: 50% wild yeast, 50% cultivated Rhone Valley yeast. Cooperage: 43% New French Oak, 7% New American oak, 50% 1-2y.o. blend of French oak. Cepage: Syrah 79%, Cabernet Sauvignion 14%, Cabernet Franc 3%, Merlot 4%. Clarification: lightly fined, unfiltered.   Back to Releases page... Also be sure to learn about...