Morgan Tierra Mar demonstrates the power and elegance capable from Syrah grown in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The ‘09 cuvee was selected from Morgan’s Double L Vineyard as well as Paraiso’s Vineyard. The Double L Vineyard was planted on east facing terraces overlooking the Salinas River Valley. The north-south vineyard row orientation provides optimum sun exposure and access to the strong afternoon breezes. The winds moderate the afternoon temperature, thickening the grape skins and concentrating flavors. Double L has been Certified Organic since 2002 and remains the only such vineyard in the appellation.

The growing season started slowly in 2009; cool, wet weather in late spring delayed the fruit by 5 - 10 days. August was more temperate, with less fog than normal. Warm weather allowed sugars to catch-up, but not necessarily flavor. Patience was key in determining when to harvest. We harvested the lots for this bottling between October 19th and 26th.

After extended hang-time, ripe fruit is hand picked and sorted. The grapes were de-stemmed and fermented in small open tanks to retain the subtle characteristics of cool climate fruit. Manual punch-downs and extended maceration insures color and flavor extraction with well integrated tannins. The wine was aged for 13 months in 30% new Taransaud French barrels.

The ’09 Tierra Mar Syrah displays aromas of molasses, raspberry and black pepper. Rich flavors of dark chocolate and plum complete the palate. The wine’s velvety tannins add polish, making it a perfect match for slow cooked meats with roasted potatoes and winter vegetables.