2015 LaBarge Syrah

About 2015 LaBarge Syrah:

For Pierre LaBarge, producing fine wines is a uniquely personal mission. In the tradition of Europe’s finest domains, dating back generations, Pierre is hands-on with every aspect of production at LaBarge. From vineyard plotting, to barrel racking, even to washing up at the end of the day.

Tasting Notes:

Medium nose shows dark layers, black plum, violets. Palate more expressive, layers of plum, blackberry, black pepper, tarragon, dried herbs, black olive, nice juicy style with medium plus tannins to finish it dry, medium plus alcohol and body.

Barrel Selection:

28 months in 15% new oak, some whole cluster.

Growing Notes:

Grapes grown on estate vineyard in Santa Rita Hills. The cool marine climate of the Santa Rita Hills brings a rich depth of flavor, with high-toned red fruit on a bed of loamy earth.

The estate is located in the Sta. Rita Hills appellation in Santa Barbara County.  The mixture of soils ranges from clay loam to sandy clay topsoil over diatomaceous earth and its variants, as well as calcareous shale – compressed, sedimentary rock of siliceous and calcareous ooze. Plantings consist of 12 acres of California heritage and ENTAV-INRA clones encompassing Pinot noir, Grenache, Syrah, Albariño, and Viognier. Planting densities are 2,420 vines per acre on a vertical shoot positioned trellis. All canopy management is employed by hand with the great thought and care required for farming organically in such a wild and challenging environment.

Winemaking Notes:

2015 LaBarge Syrah consists of 100% Syrah and is produced by winemaker Pierre LaBarge IV. Being a true domaine, all management of vineyards, winemaking, élevage, bottling, labeling, packaging, landscaping, and sales is performed by Pierre LaBarge IV, and a small and dedicated crew.

About The Winery:

For Pierre LaBarge, producing fine wines is a uniquely personal mission. In the tradition of Europe’s finest domains, dating back generations, Pierre is hands-on with every aspect of production at LaBarge. From vineyard plotting, to barrel racking, even to washing up at the end of the day. Before investing in his own winery, Pierre studied soil science and viticulture in San Luis Obispo. He went on to learn from the best, working for Shadow Canyon and then for Manfred Krankl. He brings both this experience and an obsessive dedication to his very own new Estate in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA of Santa Barbara County. His objective is simple: produce the most delicious and thought-provoking wines possible.