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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.
Tasting Notes
- WA100
- The most structured of the three Syrah, the 2004 Syrah Seymour’s Vineyard (100% Syrah from mostly flint and sandstone soils) is the most youthful in the lineup, with still obvious structure, incredible purity, and a finish that just won’t quit. Giving up notions of creme de cassis, smoked meats, crushed rock-like minerality, pepper and even hints of bacon fat, it’s more focused and precise than the Lorraine, yet has full-bodied richness, awesome purity and perfect balance between its structure and fruit. Benefitting from a decant, this fabulous wine will stand toe to toe with the best in the world, and will have another 15-20 years of longevity if well stored.
- WS98
- Shows amazing depth, richness and concentration. Dark and savory, with tiers of blackberry, blueberry and wild berry fruit that takes on a smoky, meaty, gamy edge. Full-blown, mouthcoating and deliciously complex. The finish goes on and on. Drink now through 2018. 250 cases made.
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