Fall Release Hoppe-Kelly Vineyard Eddie’s Patch Syrah
2007

Winemaker’s Notes

Our 2007 ‘Eddie’s Patch’ bottling has an element of elegance and texture we have not seen since the inaugural 2000 release. That wine remains one of my favorite bottlings from this great hillside vineyard and this new vintage is certain to win many admirers. There is a level of refinement and polish present that is indicative of the vintage in general yet also signals a new direction for us in our Syrah program. Wine style has gradually evolved from the burly and masculine wines of 2001-2004 and our new offering continues the process of refinement evident since 2005. This ‘upgrading’ translates to earlier harvesting to privilege freshness over weight; incorporating more whole clusters in the fermenter to elevate aromatic complexity; and moderating new oak use to allow the vineyard’s strong natural character to be completely revealed. These steps also lend a cool climate character to this wine; it shows aromatic blue fruit elements in addition to typical darker berry and earth tones. Palate length is long, pure and supple with plenty of structure reminiscent of its ‘Eddie’s Patch’ heritage, yet less roasted meat notes. I think it will be a great wine to enjoy between late 2010 and 2020.

Deep ruby/purple color. Swirling blue and black fruits dominate with violet notes, kirsch and cracked pepper aromas. Blueberries, blackberries, graphite and floral notes burst forth on the palate with an underlying earthiness and some back end bittersweet chocolate flavors. Tannins are round, lush and envelop the wine’s long penetrating finish.

Andy Smith