Shooting Star Syrah Lake County 2009

Vineyards

After many years of close observation we decided to plant Syrah in Lake County. This decision has been affirmed as each vintage has rewarded us with great fruit. Five growers made the initial plantings: Dorn, Silva, Fiora, Lyons and Hansmith. From these vineyards we select the lighter lots for Shooting Star.

Winemaking

All of the fruit is hand harvested and quickly delivered to the winery. The grapes are de-stemmed and gently crushed to tanks for fermentation. Temperatures peak at 87-90º F. Fermentation lasts six to seven days and the grapes are on the skins for an additional 10 days. After pressing the wine is placed into American oak barrels with about 20% of the barrels new. The wine is bottled early and is meant to be consumed young.