Vineyard Summary Vogelzang Vineyard Santa Ynez Valley 5.7 acres planted in 1997 Loam with river cobble Syrah Noir and Chapoutier clones Harvest Date October 15 Barrel Aging 17 months French oak (50% new) Varietal Composition Syrah 100% Final Analysis Alcohol by Volume 16% TA .68 pH 3.66 Total Production 500 cases

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TASTING NOTES

The 2004 Syrah from Vogelzang Vineyard begins with creamy red fruit and spice aromas. Deep, integrated flavors of plum and pomegranate anticipate accents of smoke, cinnamon and vanilla. The palate is firm in structure yet supple in texture, resulting in a seamlessly balanced mouthfeel. Hints of graphite join soft tannins for a smooth, lingering finish. 

Winemaker Chuck Carlson

VOGELZANG VINEYARD

Winemaker Chuck Carlson selected Vogelzang Vineyard as a distinctive complement and counterpoint to our estate Syrah bottlings from Crossroads and Ambassador’s vineyards. Vogelzang Vineyard unfolds along rolling hills at the foot of Los Padres National Forest in the eastern Santa Ynez Valley. This winegrowing frontier, known as Happy Canyon, is the warmest growing area in coastal Santa Barbara County. Here, progressive viticultural practices are enhanced by soils of valley loam riddled with river cobble, resulting in a finely structured Syrah with bright flavors of red fruits and spice.

WINEMAKING

The grapes were hand picked on October 8 after a long, steady growing season. The must was cold soaked for five days prior to fermentation to capture the fruit’s pure character and color. Small open-top fermenters were employed to ensure beneficial air exchange for tannin softening. The pomace was pressed in a traditional wooden basket press to ensure gentle extraction while avoiding bitter seed or skin tannins. The wine was aged for 17 months in French oak barrels.

APPELLATION

Santa Barbara County’s Santa Ynez Valley ranks among the world’s premier appellations for Syrah. Here, the varietal excels amid a balance of warm inland sunshine and cool marine breezes, resulting in long, steady ripening with fully defined flavors and excellent structure.