Chateau St. Jean, Benoist Ranch Syrah 2013, Sonoma Coast, California

Tasting Note: A concentrated, finely-textured syrah filled with fulsome, black fruit.

Deep-intensity purple in color, this wine has a medium-plus-intensity nose of black plum, bramble, red cherry, violet blossom, and raspberry.

On the palate the dry, full-bodied syrah, has medium-plus-intensity, black-fruit flavors suggested on the nose supported by well-integrated high tannin.

The fruit and tannin structure are in balance even as the wine evolves in your glass.

A syrah to repeat and share with friends.

Bottle Note: The Benoist Ranch is located in the coveted Sonoma Coast appellation. The maritime influence produces syrah with concentrated red raspberry and blackberry jam flavorings coupled with notes of milk chocolate. French oak aging integrates the well-structured tannins and adds a touch of warm spice to the lush, rich texture. – Margo Van Staaveren, Winemaker.