2016 Adelaida ‘Anna’s Estate Vineyard’ Syrah ($36)
Nestled into the rolling foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains near Paso Robles, California, there is an idyllic contemporary winery owned by the Hoffman family and operated by Dr. Stanley Hoffman and his two sons, David and Michael. The vineyards which are 1400-1800 feet above sea level, all produce estate-bottled premium wines.
The story of this uniquely successful operation goes back to 1964 when Dr. Hoffman planted his first French varietals Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon because he had found the climate, terrain, and chalky lime-rich soil of his Central Coast ranch to be comparable to the viticulture regions of France.
This Adelaida Syrah is 100% Syrah that was fermented in concrete and stainless steel tanks and aged in French oak (32% new) for 18 months.
It is a deep purple in color with delicate aromas of blackberries and tobacco. On the palate, this full-bodied wine has rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry, plum with some spice and pepper. The oak aging leads to nice vanilla flavors. It has a long finish that is smooth and balanced.
This Adelaida ‘Anna’s Estate Vineyard’ Syrah is a terrific wine that is affordable and obtainable. That makes it a perfect fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!