2015 Bell Wine Cellars Canterbury Vineyard Block 6 Syrah

Bell Wine Cellars in Yountville was founded in 1998 by winemaker Anthony Bell. A native of South Africa, Bell earned viticultural degrees in South Africa and California before beginning a 15-year career at Beaulieu Vineyards, and, later starting his own winemaking venture. In 2002 Bell sold part interest in his winery to Ron Berberian, a wine wholesaler, and Alex Spanos, an NFL team owner. Bell remains winemaker, and the estate produces both red and white wines. Along with estate vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Bell Wine Cellars produces Pinot Noir with Oregon grapes, as well as Syrah and other reds sourced from California vineyards. The estate also produces white wines, Port and sparkling wine.

Sierra Foothills AVA is in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and it includes parts of eight counties. With total acreage of 2.6 million acres, and nearly 6,000 vineyard acres, it is one of the largest appellations in California. Wine grapes were planted in the foothills during the Gold Rush in the mid-19th century and the appellation was officially recognized in 1987. There are five sub-appellations within the Sierra Foothills region, and more than 100 wineries, most small and family-owned. Zinfandel is the most successful wine grape in this region, though Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are also planted.

This grape is grown in milder climates and produces a medium-to full-bodied wine. It is also known as Shiraz, but should not be confused with Petit Sirah, which was developed by crossing Syrah with Peloursin.