In 1996, founder Ron Melville's desire to grow cold-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah brought him to the Sta. Rita Hills where he established his winery, situated amongst the beautiful rolling hills where the grapes are grown exclusively in their three estate vineyards.

Melville currently has 120 acres under vine. The soil is mostly Lompoc dune sand, interspersed with clay loam and shallow hard pans of Monterey shale. The estate currently has 16 clones of Pinot Noir, 9 clones of Syrah, and 6 clones of Chardonnay - all on a variety of low-vigor rootstocks. All blocks are fermented in small lots and isolated through their entire period of elevage, which provides Melville’s team with an ongoing exhibition of how they can fine tune vineyard practices in order to achieve the most unmanipulated and site-specific wines possible.

Melville “grows their flavors,” using no new oak and adding only yeast.

The fruit for this wine comes exclusively from Melville’s Sta. Rita Hills estate and is a combination of two different Syrah clones (Estrella and Clone 99). The Estrella is from Donna’s block which is planted on well-drained, nutrient-deficient sand. The neutrality of that soil always lends an intoxicating, high-toned bouquet of flowers and spice while the Clone 99 from Block I is planted on denser sandy-loam soil, bringing depth and richness.

70% of the fruit is gently de-stemmed with 30% remaining as whole clusters. It’s all fermented in small 1.5 ton open top fermenters. Total skin and stem contact average 30 days (7 day cold soak, 2+ weeks fermentation, and 1+ week extended maceration). From the press, the wine is transferred directly to neutral barrels (5-20 year old French oak) where it remains sur lie with no sulfur until May, when it is gently pressure racked for the first time and prepared for bottling in August.

Introducing the 2019 Melville Sta. Rita Hills Syrah, a stunning red wine that embodies the essence of the Central Coast in California. This Syrah displays a deep, ruby-red color, enticing the senses with its vibrant appearance. Aromas of ripe strawberries immediately greet the nose, accompanied by notes of cloves, black pepper, and dried flowers. The bouquet is beautifully complex, offering a symphony of scents that captivate the wine enthusiast.

On the palate, this Syrah reveals its true character. With a medium body and a remarkable texture, it showcases a seamless integration of flavors. The initial burst of strawberries and spice gives way to a subtle earthiness, offering a delightful balance between fruity and savory elements. The wine's transparency and crispness contribute to its overall elegance.

Renowned wine critics have bestowed high praise upon the 2019 Melville Sta. Rita Hills Syrah. James Suckling, an esteemed reviewer, awarded it an impressive score of 92 points, praising its pretty texture and fruity finish. Jeb Dunnuck also commends this wine, highlighting its supple and elegant texture, well-integrated acidity, and great finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate bestows a score of 93 points, noting its abundance of finely grained tannins, notable freshness, and herbal finish. Vinous, another respected publication, awards it an outstanding 94 points, emphasizing its intense boldness and savory character. Wine & Spirits raves about its exotic aromas, lush flavors, creamy texture, and fine leafy tannins, giving it an exceptional score of 95 points.

Crafted by the esteemed producer Melville, this wine is a true testament to their dedication and expertise. With an alcohol percentage of 13.8%, it offers a balanced and harmonious drinking experience. The 2019 Melville Sta. Rita Hills Syrah is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for further aging, promising to evolve gracefully over the years.