Benchmark Wines by

Alban Vineyards

The Winery

Alban Vineyards

“Alban Vineyards is an educational center and a virtual mecca for young winemakers aspiring to make great Syrah, Grenache, Roussanne and Viognier.”
- Robert Parker

John and Lorraine Alban first purchased their now legendary land in 1990 because of the striking geographic similarity to the beloved Rhône Valley in France. With a heavy emphasis on powerful Rhône style blends, this California estate has a global reputation for being difficult to acquire without a trusted source like Benchmark Wine Group. Located in the Edna Valley of San Luis Obispo County, Alban has a total of 66 acres devoted to growing Syrah, Grenache, Viognier and more. They produce a total of about 6,000 cases per year under their own label, most of which are sold on allocation to a lengthy waiting list, as well as sell some of their grapes to other notable producers. The meticulous effort and strategic combination of California terroir with Southeastern French varietals that Alban Vineyards provides is essential for any cellar.

www.albanvineyards.com

2004
3 In Stock
750ml
WA100
WS95
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Tasting Notes

WA100
More layered and concentrated, with incredible depth and richness, the 2004 Syrah Lorraine comes from chalk and flint benefits and sees the standard extended barrel aging regime, with close to 42 months spent in oak. According to John, it’s the wine that’s the most ready to go, no matter the age. It hits all of my sweet spots with its brilliant aromatics, decadent texture and blockbuster finish. Showing traces of the marine-like saltiness that’s found in the Reva, it offers up a smorgasbord of aromas and flavors, with black raspberry, creme de cassis, salted beef and liquid smoke comprising the bulk of the bouquet. Full-bodied, seamless and balanced, with fabulous concentration and nothing out of place, it’s an incredible expression of Syrah that could come from nowhere else. Drinking superbly, it too will have at least another decade of prime drinking.
WS95
Dark, rich and hearty. Packed with pure blackberry, blueberry and wild berry fruit that's intense, concentrated and tightly focused. Finishes with a long, layered finish that keeps repeating the berry themes, with a dash of mocha.

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