Failla Syrah 2019, Hudson Vineyard, Napa Valley, Callifornia

Ehren and grape grower Lee Hudson go way back – all the way back to Ehren’s days at Neyers where he made Chardonnay, Syrah, and Grenache from this esteemed southwestern Napa Valley Site. The vineyard sits pretty on a 2000 acre ranch that Lee purchased in 1979 and slowly developed into one of Napa Valley’s most recognizable vineyard names. Lee is also known for producing gigantic pumpkins every Fall and displaying them at Napa’s Oxbow Market! This close association has allowed Failla to enjoy vineyard-designate status from Hudson since 2010 with inaugural releases of both Chardonnay and Syrah. Failla’s Syrah Block 3 is planted on the adjacent, expanded Henry Road property, slightly further north and nestled in a valley between steep hillsides, protecting it from the prevailing northwestern-moving Carneros winds. Planted in 1997 on Haire series soil, the Syrah is exposed to cool nights and moderately warm days, providing a long growing season and even ripening. Despite being so far inland, there has even been evidence of sea creature fossils found in the rocks scattered throughout the vineyard. A wonderful foil to our cooler climate Estate Vineyard, the Hudson Syrah is similarly vinified on 100% whole clusters and is treated to human-powered punchdowns – aka foot treading – during harvest. Aging in mostly used French oak barrels allows for the distinctive floral, spice and savory aromas to balance the naturally rugged and robust palate.