Quick Sip: Fields Family Wines 2011 Estate Syrah
Today’s Quick Sip is the Fields Family Wines’ 2011 Estate Syrah. I had an opportunity to taste this wine during a recent event put on by the good folks at Charles Communications and Lodi Wine (aka LoCA). Fields Family Wines is a small family-run operation specializing in the production of small batches of premium wines from Lodi and Napa Valley regions. The Lodi appellation (Central Valley of California) is largely known for red wines with Zinfandel leading the way. But outside of Zinfandel, the area’s diversity, both in soil and climate, accommodates the planting of over 75 grape varieties. The region benefits from significant diurnal temperature swings. The cooler nights provide balance to the warm, sunny days, allowing the berries to retain good natural acidity while achieving optimal flavor development. Syrah is one of the few grape varieties that performs well in both cool and warm climates. This Syrah displays characteristics you would expect to find in warm climate examples and shades of what the variety exhibits in cooler climates. For further information and where you can find this wine, check out my tasting note below.
Fields Family Wines 2011 Estate Syrah
Review: Fields Family Wines 2011 Estate Syrah (SRP $22): Warm climate fruit character mingles with cool-climate structure in this enjoyable bottle of Lodi Syrah. An inviting mix of dark skinned and high-toned berry fruit fill the nose followed by brown spice, white pepper, and a faint smoky quality. The palate is pleasing and ripe, but not overly so, with good depth of fruit and understated acidity adding a refreshing lift through the lingering finish. This wine is nice on its own, but its food-partnering acidity makes it an excellent choice for grilled meats – think baby backs, flank steak, etc. I paired a glass with Old Amsterdam cheese from Holland, which was thoughtfully selected by Cindy Della Monica, owner of Lodi’s Cheese Central. The combination presented a whole new mélange of flavors and texture in the mouth. I highly recommend the duo if you have a chance. Approximately 150 cases of this wine were produced. Region: Lodi [Mokelumne River AVA], California. (Other info: ABV 14.2%, native fermentation and ML, 16 months in French oak – less than 25% new, cork enclosure.) 90 Points. Click here to find this wine.
Having a splash of Fields Family Syrah!
