Herman Story, Nuts & Bolts Syrah, Santa Barbara, California, 2021

Overview of the Wine
Proprietor and winemaker Russell P. From began Herman Story Wines in 2001 with 7 barrels stashed in his employer’s cellar. What started as a modest homage to his rancher grandfather has become a beacon to those seeking opulent, structured Syrah and Grenache. To maintain balance while giving flavor full stage, Russell works with 30 top-tier vineyards in over 7 distinct growing regions between Santa Barbara and Paso Robles. From's dedication has held the attention of discriminating consumers and reviewers alike, earning him a coveted position in Wine Spectator's Top 100 List in 2014 for his On the Road Grenache and and average 90+ score on CellarTracker across all wines and vintages.

Herman Story Wines are made, schlepped, peddled, and drunk with friends by me. The basic web design books tell me that you're probably here for the basics: to find release schedules, ordering information and tasting opportunities for the wines I make, which sounds pretty good to me. The less time I spend writing this stuff the more time I spend in the cellar. So here you go, all the facts with none of the filler. An aesthetic I stand by and believe my wines do too.

I release my wines twice a year, in Spring and Fall. The wines listed below will be set loose right around mid-March 2021. If you want to get in on the action and try some of my stuff, you can scroll down and join the CLUB, or come visit me at my winery and tasting room in downtown Paso Robles at 1227 Paso Robles Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446.

Grape / Blend
100% Syrah

Origin
Santa Barbara, Central Coast, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
It’s the home stretch of the 12th Annual Motocross Exhibition and you’re way in the lead. Throw your hands up and revel in the shouts, the raspberry rev of the engine, the needles of fresh cherry rain, the chocolate-covered figs and grilled-berry bourbon floating around the sidelines, the white pepper fireworks at the finish, the honey-tipped roses of the winner’s circle. Snatch the trophy and spray the stunned crowd with Champagne, then pop a wheelie as everyone else crosses the line, just to rub it in. Those ten-year-olds didn’t stand a chance.

For many, Nuts & Bolts functions as the Herman Story Gateway Drug. Each vintage delivers a Syrah of exceptional structure, body and power. Nuts & Bolts is built of the most opulent, expressive Syrah barrels in the cellar. 

93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (2020)
The 2020 Syrah Nuts and Bolts comes from seven different vineyards in the Central Coast, including Chelle Mountain, Bien Nacido and G2. Matured for 18 months in 90% new French oak, it features aromas of candied blueberries, blackberries, grilled game meats, iron and garrigue. The full-bodied palate is slightly rustic and chewy with restrained, spicy fruits, and a somewhat blocky, slightly bitter finish. 

Product size: 750ml