Alban Vineyards, Patrina Estate Syrah, Central Coast, California, 2021

Overview of the Wine
Alban Vineyards is the first America winery and vineyard established exclusively for Rhone varieties. Conceived at a time when there were virtually only two "flavors" of wine produced in the U.S., they set out to introduce wine grapes that would offer oenephiles a new world of possibilities. Pioneering Roussanne, Grenache Noir and Viognier to go along with meticulously selected clones of Syrah, Alban Vineyards has guided consumers and producers to the enormous potential of Rhone varietals in California.

Sustainable.

Grape / Blend
90% Syrah and 10% Viognier

Origin
Edna Valley, Central Coast, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
While the grapes for Patrina are raised with the same detail and attentiveness as the rest of the vineyards and then fermented open top with indigenous yeast, gentle pump overs and a few punch downs once soft, it is bottled unfined and unfiltered after 'just' 22 months in barrel to preserve its youthful exuberance. It offers all the density and concentration folks have come to expect from their reds with black and blue fruits, mineral notes, and flowers.

94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
The 2021 Patrina checks in as 90% Syrah and 10% Viognier that was bottled in March of 2024. It has a beautifully perfumed, complex, nuanced style in its darker berry-fruited, peppery, floral violet, and subtle orange blossom-like aromas and flavors. I love its overall balance, it has silky, polished tannins, and just a classic, seamless, incredibly impressive style. It’s a terrific introduction to the wines of this incredible estate.

94 Points - Wine Spectator
Plump and polished, with sleekly layered black raspberry flavors that are accented by dark chocolate, savory meat and cracked pepper tones that sail on the long and savory finish. (TF)

92 Points - Wine Advocate
The 2021 Syrah Patrina includes 10% Viognier and was aged in 60% new French oak. The nose is dominated by black and purple fruits with additional nuances of charcoal dust, leather and dusty gravel playing supporting roles. The medium-bodied palate displays good freshness and easygoing fruit flavors flanked by savory tinges. The finish is charming and direct, with fine tannins that provide a subtle grip. While already quite approachable, this entryway into the Alban lineup will surely reward a few years in the cellar. (ML)

Product size: 750ml