Wine Details
Vintage: 2023
Alcohol: 14.0%
pH: 3.62
TA: 6.4 g/L
Residual Sugar: 0.5 g/L (Dry)
Production: 510 cases
Bottle Price: $48
2023 Que Sarah Syrah
Bold, Peppery, and Structured
Winemaking
Harvest Date: October 22, 2023
Barrel Aging: 16 months
Oak: 45% new French oak, 55% neutral
Toast Level: Light-Medium
Fermentation: Extended maceration, 20% whole cluster
Bottling Date: February 28, 2025
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep purple-ruby with bright violet edges. Full-bodied with elegant legs reflecting concentrated but balanced fruit.
Nose
Elegant aromatics of blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry. Pronounced notes of cracked black pepper, white pepper, and dried herbs. Hints of violet, lavender, graphite, and smoked meat with subtle oak influence and a whisper of olive tapenade.
Palate
Beautifully structured with firm yet refined tannins and vibrant acidity. Flavors of fresh blackberry, blueberry, and plum are complemented by savory notes of black pepper, cured meat, and herbs de Provence. Mid-palate reveals graphite, dark chocolate, and perfectly integrated oak with mineral undertones.
Finish
Long and refined with persistent dark fruit, pepper, and savory spice. The tannins are firm but fine-grained, suggesting excellent aging potential. This vintage exemplifies the elegance and complexity possible in Northern California Syrah from cooler years. A wine of remarkable balance and terroir expression.
Food Pairing
This bold Syrah pairs beautifully with:
Grilled & Smoked Meats
BBQ brisket, grilled lamb chops, smoked ribs, or pepper-crusted steak
Rich & Savory
Beef bourguignon, venison stew, braised short ribs, or duck confit
Mediterranean Flavors
Lamb tagine, grilled sausages, cassoulet, or aged Gouda
Vintage Notes
The 2023 vintage was characterized by cooler temperatures and well-timed rainfall, creating ideal conditions for elegant Syrah. The extended growing season allowed for gradual tannin development and flavor complexity while preserving natural acidity and peppery aromatics. Later harvest captured optimal phenolic maturity with moderate alcohol levels. The higher percentage of whole cluster fermentation adds complexity and structure, showcasing a more restrained, Northern Rhône-inspired style.
Drinking Window
Peak: 2027-2035
Approachable with decanting now, but will reward patient cellaring through 2038.
Purchase This Wine
Available for purchase directly from Hillside Estate Winery
Visit Winery Website →