TASTING NOTES The 2004 P. Sirah is the second vintage bottled under the La Storia Line designation. The Vintage started with very wet winter and spring time. The rain during the bloom of the vines reduced the crop level in some varieties including P. Sirah and ultimately led to spectacular and concentrated high quality wines. As usual the grapes were picket at optimum ripeness between 25 and 27 Brix. About half of the grapes were fermented in small open top fermentors with punch down technique for gentle tannin extraction and increased flavor and color. The rest were fermented in stainless steel tanks. The primary yeast were L2226 and Syrah and the mallolactic fermentation was completed in barrels. The wine was aged in a mixture of French, European and American oak for sixteen months prior bottling.

This is a big, powerful wine with predominant aromas of ripe plums, blackberry and the typical, for the variety, blueberry. The second layer brings out graphite and smoky-tarry nuances of coffee and molasses. The mouth feel is definitely of a full bodied wine with massive but surprisingly civilized tannins leading to a long and unforgettable finish. Longevity is guaranteed with this variety for the next 10-15 years...or more!

ACCOLADES GOLD - 2007 Los Angeles International Wine Competition