2012 Andremily Syrah

Andremily Winery is a new venture by Jim Binn, a former cellar master at Sine Qua Non. Binn established his Santa Barbara area winery in 2011 and named it for his two children, Andrew and Emily. Binn leases specific acreage within the prestigious White Hawk and Larner Vineyards in Santa Barbara County, and had his first harvest in 2012. Only 250 cases of Syrah were made and it was available primarily through mailing list. Binn focuses on Rhone varietals and has earned a reputation for his winemaking skills, having honed his skills working for Manfred Krankl, the rock star-style proprietor/winemaker at SQN, starting in 1996.

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.

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.