2006 Culler Sawi Vineyard Syrah

Culler Wine is made by Karen Culler, a long time Napa winemaker whose resume includes stints at Mondavi and several prestigious, small-batch producers. She makes Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah under her own label, Culler, and also for Culler Casaeda, whose managing partners are Jerry and Emily Baker. Culler Wines are sourced from premier Napa vineyards. Robert M. Parker Jr. has noted that “Karen Culler (who also makes the wines for Wolf Family Vineyards and Ladera) fashions some impressive cuvees under her own label.”

Sonoma County is not an AVA, but it is a commonly used informal designation for wines made outside of more specific AVAs within Sonoma, which is a large wine producing region just west of Napa Valley. Though Sonoma is often overshadowed by its glamorous neighbor Napa Valley, it has a long history of wine production. The area specialized in jug wine until the mid-20th century, when Sonoma producers took a cue from Napa and started improving quality. Unlike Napa, where Cabernet Sauvignon is king, Sonoma specialized in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel, though excellent Cabs are produced too. There are at present 16 AVAs within Sonoma County, and, like much of the West Coast of the United States, new AVAs are created in Sonoma County with regularity. Some Sonoma appellations, such as the Russian River Valley, are renowned for Pinot Noir 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.