2013 CARTE BLANCHE THREE PEAKS SYRAH

Nicholas Allen’s goal with Carte Blanche is to craft luxury wines in America that are inspired by classic French winemaking tradition. His great grandfather, Clarence Dillon, owns iconic Bordeaux producer Chateau Haut-Brion. From the very beginning, Nicholas made a pivotal move in hiring renowned French-born winemaker Luc Morlet to help achieve his goal. Luc made this brilliant Three Peaks Syrah, then winemaker Helen Keplinger completed the wine. You might recognize Helen from being featured on the front page of the Wine Spectator or from her work at Bryant Family and Grace Family.

The Three Peaks Syrah arose from the volcanic, clay, and rock-laden soils of the Judge Family Vineyard in Bennett Valley. The site’s micro-climate and unique terroir is ideally suited for Syrah and attracts top-producers like TOR, Carlisle, and Christopher Tynan, who’ve made Syrahs from it.

The 2013 Carte Blanche Syrah checks in at 90% Syrah and 10% Grenache and the addition of Grenache highlights the intense red fruits, and adds hints of spice notes, while the Syrah contributes depth and classic meaty characteristics. I would use your own Carte Blanche to secure the case, and especially at this price.