As Syrah is becoming more popular with consumers as a quality wine grape, growers are experimenting with new regions to grow Syrah grapes in California. The reason for this is tied to California’s unique climate, and a desire to grow higher quality Syrah grapes for crafting a fine varietal wine.

Syrah grapes were originally grown in Southern France, where the climate is very hot. When Syrah grapes were introduced to California, grower’s looked to plant the vines in similar climatic conditions. As a result, California growers have had comparable success in producing a quality Syrah grape. However, because California’s growing season is uninhibited by rain and inundated by plenty of sunshine; growers are testing cooler climates for growing Syrah grapes.

Baldassari Family Wine’s 2003 Syrah grapes are grown in one of California’s “cooler climate” growing regions. Our grapes come from Bennett Bench Vineyard, which is located at 1,000-foot elevation in the Bennett Valley area of Sonoma County. Bennett Valley, which is situated directly across from Sonoma Mountain, was recently approved by the BATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms) to become Sonoma County’s newest recognized appellation designated area.

As a result of the higher elevation, these grapes ripen at a slower rate, which concentrates their flavor. The resulting wine is dark in color, rich, and full of flavor, while retaining its acidity, which is a result of the cooler climate. We believe that the Syrah grapes from Bennett Bench Vineyard in Bennett Valley have provided us with the opportunity to make a superb tasting Syrah wine.

Baldassari Family Wines feels confident that your purchase of our 2003 Syrah will be rewarded with a wonderfully unique and pleasant drinking wine.

Salute!