When Bradley Brown first discovered the vineyard in 2007, he not only contracted with the owner to bud over blocks of Syrah to Grenache and Pinot noir, he also contracted to have the owner plant a special steeply terraced block to a special “Alban Baby Block” selection of Syrah paired with a rootstock he felt was ideal for the rocky soils. With each passing vintage, the vines are more fully expressing the complexity of this site and their pedigree. While evoking the classic signature terroir of the Coastview Vineyard, it is distinctly different with layers of complexity and aromatics that set it apart from the regular Coastview bottling.

This was a year that defied all expectations. Acid levels were through the roof. After multiple draught vintages where sugar could jump 3 brix in less than a week (the difference of 2% alcohol!), they barely moved over two to three weeks. The made is a winemaker’s harvest where we could really fine tune the pick dates. Deep brooding black fruit with savory hints in the nose with hints of crushed rocks and asphalt. Dense and concentrated on palate with layers of wild black fruits and savory spices and a finish that sails on.