2022 Reserve Roussanne Cuvée Alder Springs

Our Reserve wines carry a tremendous history, backed by 17 years of dedicated production and craftsmanship. Carefully selected from small lots of exceptional barrels, this collection is limited and highly curated. These single-vineyard expressions are sourced from some of the most renowned wine-growing regions in the United States. Each wine highlights the very best of its local terroir, crafted in partnership with distinguished growers who produce outstanding expressions of each grape variety. Aged in French oak barrels, these wines develop remarkable structure, depth, and elegance. With tremendous aging capacity, they are true collectors' must-haves—built to evolve beautifully over time.

This is a dynamic and evolving wine, offering a symphony of complex flavors. On the nose, it reveals smoky blackberry jam, black cherry, cassis, and layers of cocoa, black licorice, and pepper. The palate is fresh and vibrant, underscored by earthy notes of black truffle and crushed rock. Its hallmark balance and minerality shine through, with the rich fruit seamlessly integrated with subtle oak. This depth and harmony preserve the wine's varietal character, making it a standout expression of Syrah.

Small-lot fermentation preserves the unique character of individual vineyard blocks, while a pre-fermentation cold soak enhances vibrant color, aromatics, and soft tannins with pump-overs ensure balance, avoiding aggressive tannins while highlighting the fruit's intensity. Malolactic fermentation. Aging in neutral French oak barrels imparts subtle notes of vanilla, clove, and spice without overpowering the fruit, with 12-18 months of maturation allowing the wine to develop harmony and depth. Minimal handling and low sulfur use maintain the wine's natural vibrancy, resulting in a pure, authentic expression.

In 2005, Christie White and Luis Castelero transformed a historic farm into a peaceful retreat with lush gardens and an organic vineyard. Blending his Spanish culinary heritage with global expertise, Luis oversees sustainable practices that produce wines reflecting the region's unique terroir.  Located in Big Valley, Kelseyville, Lake County, the region offers exceptional winegrowing conditions. Surrounded by Clear Lake and the Mayacamas and Konocti mountains, Big Valley’s vineyards thrive at 1,326 to 1,418 feet, benefiting from intense UV light, cool breezes, and fertile soils. These conditions make it ideal for Rhone varietals like Syrah, resulting in elegant, balanced wines.

This Syrah pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. Its smoky blackberry and spice notes shine alongside grilled lamb chops seasoned with rosemary and thyme, while its rich fruit and earthy undertones complement braised short ribs in red wine reduction. For a vegetarian option, wild mushroom risotto enhances the wine’s black truffle complexity, and roasted eggplant with harissa highlights its vibrant acidity and peppery finish. For a simpler pairing, try aged manchego or smoked gouda, which balance the Syrah’s depth and subtle oak.