Vintage
2010
Vineyard Designation
Paolo’s Vineyard
Syrah
Most winegrowers had terrible difficulties in 2010 due to temperature fluctuations but Paolo's Vineyard was relatively unscathed and the 2010 Syrah is one of our tastiest.
- Vineyard
- Tasting Notes
- Recipes
- Accolades
- Vintages
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
The Paolo's Vineyard Syrah is Montemaggiore's flagship wine, thus the ultimate expression of our estate mountainside vineyards. Typically 100% Syrah, this wine has rich and intense flavors balancing black fruit with spicy, earthy, savory notes.
Food Pairings
Being medium to full-bodied, Montemaggiore Syrah goes well with foods that are likewise. The earthy flavors in mushrooms, the smokey flavors in grilled meats, the slightly gamey flavors in lamb echo the aromas in the Paolo's Vineyard Syrah.
This wine pairs well with marinated tri-tip, lamb kebabs, pasta bolognese, grilled portobellos, pork tenderloin, bacon rösti, and sheep's milk cheeses.
Consider our recipes for wild mushroom and brie crostini, salsa di parmigiano, mushroom risotto with truffle oil, chipotle sweet potato gratin, salmon grilled on a cedar plank, bucatini amatriciana, and lamb burgers.
Accolades
Wine Enthusiast
May 2014
"Perfect ripeness has given this 100% Syrah the most savory blackberry, cherry, mocha, and red licorice flavors, with hints of grilled bacon and black pepper. Its tannis are smooth and complex, while a burst of juicy acidity helps the wine finish clean. Pair this versatile wine with everything from lamb and steak to salmon and cheese.” —S.H