2012 Anthill Farms Sonoma Coast Syrah

Anthill Farms in Healdsburg, California, was started by three young winemakers who met when they worked together at Williams Selyem. Anthony Filiberti, David Low and Webster Marquez decided to make their own single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, and their debut release was in 2004. They quickly gained a cult following at famous restaurants in the Bay Area, and Anthill now produces 1,500 cases a year. Though Anthill is best known for Pinot Noir, it also makes a Syrah.

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.