Talmage Collection

2006 Syrah, Mariah Vineyards

Site

We source our 2006 Talmage Syrah from inland Mendocino County’s Mariah Vineyards, uniquely situated at 2600 feet elevation on the Mendocino Ridge, the world’s only non-contiguous appellation. The Mendocino Ridge, known locally as “Islands in the Sky,” rises above the fog line to reveal mountaintops basking in uninterrupted sunshine. Less than 100 acres of the Ridge’s 410 square miles are planted with vines some dating back to the late 1800’s and these mountaintop vineyards offer spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring forests.

Family-owned and operated, Mariah Vineyards have been sustainably farmed since 1979 and rely exclusively on solar power and biodiesel. Acres of mountaintop fir trees and their enriching minerals have transformed existing rock into life-giving soil.

Vinification

Cooler daytime temperatures and warmer nights allow the Syrah grapes to develop balanced flavors with integrated tannins, while maintaining natural acidity. Fleshy and viscous, this wine’s intense aromatic profiles of lavender, white pepper, and wild blackberry lead to mocha, cassis, and a hint of anise.

We age our Talmage Syrah in new and used French oak barrels for fourteen months.