2006 Jorian Hill Viognier

Viognier is the source for some of the great whites of the northern Rhône. Though challenging to grow, and therefore relatively rare in California, Viognier has proven an ideal fit for the unique microclimate of Santa Barbara County's Santa Ynez Valley, where all-day sunshine and clockwork afternoon ocean breezes produce fruit with lush flavors and food-friendly acidity. Made from 100 percent estate-grown Viognier grapes, this handcrafted, small-lot wine was aged in neutral oak to maintain its majestic bouquet and vibrant charm.

Our 2006 Viognier has a bright, clear yellow straw hue. It is elegant and soft as a result of optimal grape ripeness, with aromas of honeysuckle, jasmine and ripe apricots. On the palate, the wine enters fresh and is followed by a silky mid-palate that is ripe with fresh apricot, honey, and subtle lactic notes. The wine finishes clean and crisp. 180 cases produced.

2004 Jorian Hill Syrah

Handcrafted using estate fruit from three elite clones of Syrah, and blended with an enticing touch of Sangiovese, Jorian Hill's inaugural 2004 Syrah pairs Rhône-inspired elegance with premium California winegrowing. In the vineyard and in the winery, this small-lot wine benefited from the meticulous attention to detail that defines great winemaking, including the careful hand tending of the vineyard, and the use of sustainable, chemical-free viticultural techniques. The result is a wine of depth and purity that beautifully embodies the nuance and charm of a great vineyard.

The 2004 Jorian Hill Syrah displays a deep, inky purple color that hints at the wine's character and concentration. In the bouquet, the wine reveals elegant aromas of blueberry, blackberry, rose petal and cassis, along with understated notes of leather, pepper, cedar and cigar box. On the palate, these enticing aromas are followed by layered flavors of purple plums, subdued fruit, coffee, cocoa and soft spice. Though drinking beautifully now, this well-balanced Syrah's rich underlying tannins will ensure that it cellars well for the next five to eight years.

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