Arnot-Roberts Syrah Sonoma Coast 2022

Arnot-Roberts was founded in 2001 by Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts in Northern California, and they built their reputation seeking out cool sites where European varieties thrive. This Syrah comes from six vineyards on the Sonoma Coast, planted on clay and shale close to the Pacific. The maritime climate keeps the growing season long and cool, which preserves acidity and holds alcohol down to 12.5 percent, giving a wine closer in weight to the northern Rhone than to a warm climate Shiraz. The fruit is fermented and aged for ten months in used French oak, so the barrel adds gentle structure and oxygen exchange rather than fresh toast or vanilla, keeping the aromatics clear. A portion of whole cluster fermentation is typical of this style and lifts the peppery, floral character. The colour is medium ruby with a violet edge. The nose is savoury, with black pepper, red and black fruit, olive and a stony note. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with fine tannin and a long, peppery finish. Serve at 16 degrees. It suits grilled meats, duck and mushroom dishes.