Judge Family Vineyard is a single vineyard Syrah wine from Bennett Valley. The vineyard is meticulously cared for, with its owner/farmers Joe and Gail Judgeliving on the property. It is one of our coolest Syrah sites, harvested late each year in October. This allows us ample hang time but at lower sugars since the peak growing season is towards the end of summer and going into fall. The vineyard lies in the northwesternmost portion of Bennet Valley where the daily fog often lingers until late morning. The land in and around Judge Vineyard is a series of undulating swales comprised of gravelly loam and decent-sized rocks.
Visit Our StoreJudge Vineyard Syrah is an iron fist in a velvet glove. There is plenty of fruit concentration but also considerable tannin to give it structure. We pull fruit from three distinct blocks, each planted to a unique clone of Syrah. This melange of Clone 877, Clone 174, and Estrella River Selection allows for vineyard built-in complexity. Each clone is fermented and aged separately with a percentage of whole-cluster and cooperage matched specifically to optimize the balance of flavor.
The key to enjoying Judge Vineyard Syrah is giving it time in the glass, where its many layers of fruit and textured tannins can be played out in acts throughout the night. On the palate, it’s a flavorful surprise as the acidity softens the bold, spicy flavors. The finish is long, dense, and just as flavorful as the first sip.
2016 Judge Vineyard Syrah from Donelan Family Wines on Vimeo.
Syrah (100%)
Judge Vineyard Syrah is located in Bennett Valley, where undulating swales are comprised of gravelly loam and rocks.
22 months in 38% new French oak barrels
Enjoy for the next 10-15 years
Lavender, Cinnamon, Mexican Mole Chocolate, Silky, Dark Berry Fruits
Beef Bourguignon, Braised Lamb Shank
(Tech Sheet) / Bottle Image / Label Image