Our Wines: Syrah

Bliss Vineyard: Syrah grown in cool climates achieve an aromatic delicacy and complexity that appeals to those who also love Pinot Noir. This wine is one of those. Its aromas of blueberry and ethereal perfume are well-matched to its substantial structure, yet suave texture. The Bliss vineyard is aptly named.

2005: "This is our last bottling from this vineyard since it was sold to Lynmar Winery last year. You may want to look for theirs in the future, as it contains some fantastic grapes. If you love elegant northern Rhone Syrah with blueberry, white pepper flavors and a very slight touch of new oak, this wine is for you. It has a very long, sneaky finish and should develop well for years. It happens to be my favorite vintage of this wine. It figures. Fortunately, there are other Syrahs on our horizon. 90 cases produced $40 per bottle."

-- Library Tasting, 2007 newsletter

2003: "This is our second vintage from this vineyard. As I mentioned in a past newsletter, Don Bliss has in fact, budded over some Pinot Noir thereby doubling the amount of this variety for the future. He has also added a selection of Syrah that I have been packing around for over a decade and a few other promising clones/selections. Somewhat riper than the previous vintage, this wine still has a meatiness (something like smoked duck from across the room), violets, plums, and the kind of texture and structure that a great northern Rhone can achieve. 30 cases produced. $35 per 750 mL. Limit 4, people who bought 2002 vintage get 'first crack' for this before we open it up to first in line to those on the 'wish list.'"

-- Library Tasting, 2005 newsletter

2002: "We first met Don and Dianne Bliss at our first barrel tasting in 1992. Don was taken prisoner by our Zinfandel that day, and has generously offered support and assistance in many ways since that day. Lately, he has been an essential part of our operation, and a welcome intelligent mind to bounce winemaking and grape growing ideas around with. When the Bliss' planted their Pinot Noir vineyard several years ago, we agreed that if they were bold enough to plant a small amount of Syrah in their 'barely warm enough for Syrah'site, we would be bold enough to make the wine from it each year, rain or shine.

"More like a Northern Rhone than an Australian Shiraz, this has white pepper, blueberry perfumes, notes of smoked meats and a firm Pinot Noir lovers' mouthfeel. Do not buy this wine if you prefer Australian wine to Côte Rôtie. This wine needs and wants little or no new oak. It is complete on its own. We are so encouraged by the first two vintages that the Bliss' are planning to convert some of their adjacent Pinot Noir to Syrah this next season. 34 cases produced. $35 per 750 mL. Limit 4."

-- Library Tasting, 2004 newsletter
 

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