2018 Scribe Baker Lane Vineyard Field Guide 5.4 Syrah

Scribe Winery is part of the wave of new California wine ventures operated by young people aiming to redefine California winemaking. Founded in 2007 by brothers Andrew and Adam Mariani, their Sonoma estate was once one of the state's first Riesling vineyards. Another part of the estate was a turkey farm. The brothers come from a family of California walnut farmers that goes back four generations and their approach to winemaking is non-interventionist and site-specific. In keeping with the German wine heritage of the property, Scribe produces Sylvaner and Riesling, as well as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sonoma Coast AVA runs from San Pablo Bay in the south to Mendocino County in the north. It includes 7,000 vineyard acres and earned AVA status in 1987. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it gets double the rainfall of nearby inland appellations and the ocean gives the appellation a relatively cool climate. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in these conditions, and there are numerous producers making critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

This grape is grown in milder climates and produces a medium-to full-bodied wine. It is also known as Shiraz, but should not be confused with Petit Sirah, which was developed by crossing Syrah with Peloursin.