2007 Novy Unti Vineyard Syrah

The Unti Vineyard is one of California’s better known Syrah vineyards, and we have been fortunate enough to work with the fruit from this property for several years. In previous vintages, we have often blended the Unti fruit into either the Dry Creek Valley or the Sonoma County Syrah. Only in vintages where we found the grapes to be truly outstanding have we placed an “Unti Vineyard” designation on the wine. That was certainly the case in 2007.
The 2007 growing season was kind to many varietals but it was especially good to the grapes grown at the Unti Vineyard. We harvested the fruit on September 18 under perfect conditions, retained some whole clusters in the ferment, and added just a touch of Viognier juice to the must to co-ferment with the Syrah. All of these techniques seemed to ratchet up the complexity on what was already a concentrated wine.
The 2007 Novy Unti Vineyard Syrah leads off with an enticing mixture of chocolate and plum fruits. The mid-palate brings in a bit of pepper, earth, and even a hint of leather. The finish is long, with some of the vanilla from a bit of oak poking through. This is an outstanding but young California Syrah that will match best with heartier foods.

90-93 points Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate