Shirah Lagrein 2020

Originating from the South Tyrol in Italy, DNA analysis has determined that Lagrein is a close relative of the Rhone’s Syrah. The shape and size do not share much similarities, with Lagrein having compact clusters with larger, thicker skinned berries and Syrah with loose cylindrical clusters of smaller and slightly thinner skinned berries. The differences for the most part end there,  with the color and flavors being quite similar. Lagrein tends to show a more straightforward dark fruit flavor framed by hulking tannic structure, with Syrah generally displaying more overt complex flavors and slightly more approachable tannins. Our ‘20 vintage Lagrein was sourced from the Happy Canyon AVA, one of coastal Santa Barbara’s warmer zones, with warmth being one of the necessary components for properly ripening Lagrein. Yields were miniscule and our allotted vines gave us much less quantity than we were hoping for. The flipside is that the wine is extremely dark, dense and concentrated.

Winemaker Notes

Varietal: Lagrein

Vineyard: Santa Ynez Vineyard

Region: Happy Canyon AVA, Santa Barbara County, CA

Bottle Size: 750ml

New Release TN’s:

Date Tasted: July, 2023

Color: dark, opaque magenta

Nose: meaty, briar, violets, pastille, cigar tobacco, blackberry pie, plum, lactic creaminess, leather, tobacco

Mouth: full bodied, rich, game, blackberry preserves, subtle asian spice, juniper, mid palate intensity with good tannin and acidity. Blueberry reduction, Creme brulee

Decant for: 

Pair with: lamb street food (tacos, burgers, kabobs)

Drinkability: Drink now through 2030