2009 Spring Mountain Co-Ferment Syrah

Spring Mountain Vineyard was founded in 1968 in the Spring Mountain district of Napa Valley. In 1990 it was purchased by a group of investors led by Jacob Safra and the investors have subsequently also purchased two nearby properties, meaning that today the estate also includes Chateau Chevalier and Draper Vineyards. Altogether the three estates have nearly 800 acres, about 226 of which are vineyards. The estate produces a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. It also makes Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and Viognier.

Spring Mountain AVA is above the town of St. Helena on the eastern slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains. There is no actual Spring Mountain, but the name has traditionally been used for the area, which includes many streams and springs. Spring Mountain was awarded appellation status in 1993 and it includes about 1,000 vineyard acres. Vineyard elevations are high, from 400 to 2,600 feet above sea level. Because of the altitude of most vineyards, which are above the fog line, mornings become warm earlier than vineyards on the valley floor, though the afternoons are cooled by maritime winds. The result is an exceptionally long growing season. Cabernet Sauvignon is the most frequently planted grape by acreage, followed by Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay.

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.