Syrah, Californio – 2016
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Introduction
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The name Californio pays tribute to the early California settlers, or Californios, those of Spanish heritage who tamed the wilds of the frontier. As descendants of the early Californios, the Hyde and de Villaine families strive to present a Syrah that highlights one of California’s premier growing sites, Hyde Vineyard, while embodying the elegance of the Old World.
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Vineyard Profile
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Subterranean: Ancient terraces and alluvial fans
- Vineyards: Hyde Vineyard, at the eastern edge of Los Carneros
- Vineyard Owner: a. Vineyard Owner: Mr. and Mrs. Aubert de Villaine, Mr. and Mrs. Laurence W. Hyde, Mr. and Mrs. Richard E. Hyde III
- Appellation: Carneros, Napa Valley
- Size: 2.1 acres
- Vine Age: 16 to 22 years
- Soil: Haire Clay Loam
- Exposure: South by southeast
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Vintage Report
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2016 started with a cold and wet winter, which gave the vines a well-deserved dormancy after the fast-paced growing season of 2015. Bud break occurred in mid-March and was followed by a dry and warm spring. This resulted in a healthy and vigorous canopy and ideal pollination, which provided a bountiful crop.
Heavy fog in early August slowed down the maturation process and allowed for optimal phenolic development while retaining the freshness and natural acidity Hyde Vineyard is known for. Harvest started the second week of August and was completed by the first week of October.
- Harvest Date(s): September 23
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Vinification
- Barrel Aging: 18 months in French oak; 20% new
- Bottled: March 21, 2018; unfined and unfiltered
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Syrah
- Production (in cases): 465 cases (9L)
- Alcohol: 14.3%
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Tasting Notes
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Flavors of dark plum and mountain blueberry lead into hues of tobacco, black pepper and black olive. Aromatic nuances of coriander, basil and violet bring a savory and floral complexity that is reaffirmed with notes of iron and smoked meat. Fine grain tannins and elevated acidity transition to an extended finish reminiscent of berry herbal tea. A wine of precision and restrained power. — Guillame Boudet, Winemaker
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Images
Reviews
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Hyde de Villaine Syrah, Californio – 2016 – James Suckling – 93 Points
A tight, juicy red with dried-meat and blackberry flavors. Full body. Clove, stone and spice undertones. Reserved, yet pretty. Medium finish. Drink now.
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Hyde de Villaine Syrah, Californio – 2016 – Vinous – 96 Points
The 2016 Syrah Californio Hyde Vineyard is a dense, powerful wine that remains very much within the classic style favored here. Inky dark fruit, grilled herbs, menthol, licorice, tobacco and incense add striking layers of nuance to this dark, beautifully resonant Syrah. The 2016 spent 18 months in French oak, 20% of which was new. A reduction of time in barrel by a few months really helps the purity of the fruit come through. This is a superb vintage for the Syrah.