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.

2013 was a Napa Valley vintage for the ages. The drought brought us a warm, dry spring that prompted another early bud break. Steady temperatures and optimal weather continued through spring and summer with no significant heat spikes, which enabled even growth and ripening throughout the year. The crop was small and of exceptional quality, with tremendous concentration, color and texture. Though significantly higher than usual, tannins were not harsh or aggressive, and their fine, polished texture has integrated beautifully with time.

An appealing nose of intense cardamom, black fruit, sweet spice and pepper shades into secondary notes of cigar box, meat and graphite. Fresh blackberry, sweet spices and minerality open up in the glass, coupled with a juicy meatiness. The palate is dense and spicy with great concentration, energy and balance. The polished grip of fine-grained tannins carries the wine to a lengthy finish, warmed by classic black pepper notes. —Stéphane Vivier, Winemaker