Black Sheep Finds Holus Bolus Franc de Pied Syrah 2015

Black Sheep Finds Holus Bolus Franc de Pied Syrah 2015

This block of Syrah is typically blended with the two other blocks at John Sebastiano to make up the “regular” Holus Bolus Syrah.

100% Syrah from John Sebastiano Vineyard, which is located at the eastern edge of Sta. Rita Hills, in Santa Barbara County. The site was planted in 2007 to a density of 2,400 vines per acre. The vines are on their own rootstock and come from cuttings that were originally brought over from Côte Rôtie, hence the Franc de Pied naming.

These own-rooted vines always grow smaller, produce smaller clusters, and make what Peter and Amy feel is one of the most unique wines in their cellar.

The grapes were fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. 25% whole clusters were used and fermentation lasted for 15 days. The wine was aged in a combination of 2 and 3 year-old French oak barrels for 14 months before bottling without fining or filtration.

The aromas are reminiscent of black olives, rosemary and smoke, giving way to flavors of dark raspberries and spice. Holus Bolus Franc de Pied Syrah 2015 is a fine example of cool climate Syrah. Enjoy now and over the next 8-10 years.