# Estate Syrah (2019)

- **Producer:** Melville Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Natural
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, red cherry, black pepper, violet, blueberry, cloves, smoke, mint, liquorice, olive, cured meat

## About this wine

The Melville Estate Syrah 2019 hails from the Sta. Rita Hills appellation in California, a region known for its cool climate. This wine is produced entirely from Syrah grapes grown on Melville Winery's estate vineyards, which have been farmed organically since the mid-2000s. The winery, founded by Ron Melville and now managed by his son Chad, emphasizes a 'winegrowing' philosophy focused on meticulous vineyard management and a connection to the land. This approach aims to allow the unique characteristics of the estate and the vintage to be expressed in the final wine.

## Interesting facts

- Melville is a 100% estate winery, meaning all grapes come from their own vineyards.
- Organic farming practices have been in place since the mid-2000s.
- The winemaker, Chad Melville, utilizes whole-cluster fermentation.
- This wine is recognized with high scores from major wine critics.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and refined tannins pair well with proteins, while its savory notes complement richer dishes. The bright acidity cuts through fattier elements, and the peppery and herbal undertones in the wine can echo or contrast with herbs and spices in the food.

## Wine making process

The Melville Estate Syrah 2019 is produced using minimal intervention winemaking techniques. Key methods include whole-cluster fermentation, where grape stems are included during the fermentation process, and extended maceration to enhance structure and complexity. The wine is subsequently aged in neutral oak barrels, a practice chosen to allow the fruit and terroir to express themselves without significant oak influence. The winery's commitment to organic farming is a foundational aspect of their vineyard management.