Vineyard Profile: Estate Vineyard
Located on a mountainside high above Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, the rocky soils of Montemaggiore's estate vineyards produce intensely flavored grapes at naturally low yields. Using biodynamic practices and organic materials, we farm Paolo's Vineyard without chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides.

2010 Vintage
Although 2010 was disastrous for many on California's north coast, Montemaggiore experienced a great vintage.  Spring was wet and cold, followed by a cool summer with temperatures about 5-10°F below normal. For several days in late August and early September, however, temperatures rose well above 100°F. Grapes in many vineyards shriveled and sunburned but Paolo's Vineyard was unaffected due to its high elevation (thus moderating temperatures), close vine spacing (less direct sunlight), and biodynamic practices (heartier vines).  Our harvest started a bit later than usual in mid-October due to the generally cool season.

Winemaker's Goal
Syrafina's nuances arise from co-fermenting a bit of viognier with our favorite varietal, syrah. The viognier adds floral and citrus notes to the aromas, while simultaneously softening the power of the syrah on the palate. The inspiration for Syrafina comes from the Côte Rôtie region in France, where this blend is quite popular. More on Syrafina Winemaking ▶

Food Pairings
Syrafina pairs well with grilled salmon, roast leg of lamb with rosemary, seafood cioppino, roast duck, grilled portobellos, pork tenderloin, and sheep's milk cheeses.

Consider our recipes for salmon grilled on a cedar plank, chipotle sweet potato gratin, and grilled sausage with fennel and lemon.

Accolades

Wine Enthusiast
May 2012

"You can really taste the 3% of Viognier in this estate-grown Syrah. It's like a squeeze of lime juice, giving the blackberry, blueberry and mocha flavors a zingy, mouthwatering tang. The alcohol's a little high, but you'll hardly notice it with rich beef and lamb dishes —S.H."

San Francisco Chronicle
January 2014

The 2010 Syrafina performed exceptionally well by winning a Gold Medal in the largest American wine competition, in which more than 5,800 wines were entered.