2003 Merryvale Syrah

Merryvale was founded in 1983 though the historic estate dates to the early 20th century. Located in St. Helena, the estate was built just after the repeal of prohibition. Today it is owned by the Schlatter family. Merryvale owns 25 acres of vineyards and grows Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Named after a building in San Francisco, the winery’s mission is to make Bordeaux-style wines. It makes about 10,000 cases of Merryvale annually, and about 90,000 cases of its second line, the Starmont label. Merryvale’s signature wines are Profile, a red Bordeaux blend, and Silhouette, a Burgundian Chardonnay. Wine Enthusiast rated the 2008 Profile at 97 pts and called it “a tremendous wine that shows how Merryvale is absolutely at the top of its game.”

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.