2023 / Willow Creek District Syrah
The Syrah in Block 4 on top of the hill has always been the first of our three varietals to ripen, but with the much cooler temperatures, it didn't kick-off the harvest season until October 7, a full 35 calendar days later than 2022. The north-northwest facing Block 2 Syrah - at least the vines that survived the slide - was ready 10 days later based on berry analysis and flavors, but did not reach the same ripeness as measured by sugars levels. Acid levels were very good from both blocks. When we tasted through for blending decisions, we concluded that the combination of Block 2 and Block 4 was superior for a 100% Syrah wine than either block on its own (vs the 2022 vintage that was 100% Block 2 clone 27.1 but riper from a warmer year). Both lots saw approximately 25% whole cluster cold soak maceration with twice a day punch down or pumpovers with just about 3 weeks from destemming to barrel down. Elevage was 15-1/2 months in an average of 27% new french oak (Tonnellerie Meyrieux Grand Selection, medium toast Burgundy barrels) compared to 16 months in 67% new oak for the 2022 vintage (Tonnellerie Sylvain Selection, medium toast).
The 2023 Syrah was painstakingly curated with organic farming practices, small-batch winemaking and a reverence for site expression
- A blend of Syrah from top of the hill Block 4 and from steep slopes at Block 2B
- Approximately 1/3rd Clone 470 and 2/3rds Clone 27.1
- Calcareous limestone and clay loam
- Elevation range of 1,015 to 1,300 feet
- 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean
- Organically farmed vines
Vinification
- A special selection from two 228-liter French oak barrels
- 5-day cold soak followed by fermentation in small open-top bins
- Aged for 15.5 months in an average of 27% new oak
- Selected and blended at the 6-month mark of aging
- Returned to barrels for 10 additional months of maturation
Analysis
- Alc. 14.8%
- TA .58
- PH 3.63
- Cases 96
2023 Willow Creek District Syrah
Tasting
Notes
The 2023 Syrah is a masterwork of Willow Creek District Syrah that will deliver for years to come. This wine is engulfing out of the glass with scents of purple flower, Provençale herb, black cherry, blue fruits and toasted oak. Concentrated flavors of blackberry, plum skin, cherry and boysenberry meet hints of tobacco, savory spice and sleek oak tones, all seamlessly unfolding with supple tannins and muscular textures. Integrated acidity and subtle minerality punctuate a sturdy, structured finish.
Reviews, Kind Words &
Accolades
Aromas and flavors of cracked floral peppercorns, dried lavender and earth are plush, fleshed out with tannin-framed blackberries, black raspberries and blood oranges. A tealike character carries a sizzle of spices through the savory, mineral and mouthwatering finish. Drink or hold
—94 points, Brian Freedman, jamessuckling.com / September 2025
Darker berry fruit, sappy flowers, ground pepper, and spicy wood emerge from the 2023 Syrah………… it's well-made, plush, round, and supple, with ripe tannins, a charming, forward style, sweet fruit, and an easygoing character. Drink bottles over the coming 5-7 years.
—90 points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com / August 2025
Silken waves of ripe red and black fruits envelop the palate, contrasted by tactile mineral tones and a pronounced core of brisk acidity. Long and staining, the 2023 leaves edgy tannins offset by a flourish of sweet spice and a hint of citrus.
—93 points, Eric Guido, Vinous / June 2025
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