2016 - 2021
The 2013 Syrah Shadow Canyon comes from the cooler, wetter York Mountain on the western edge of Paso Robles. Seeing 80% whole clusters and 30% new oak, it has lots of plum and darker berry fruits, sappy herbs and mint to go with a full-bodied, lively and sweetly fruited style on the palate. It lacks a touch of the integration and balance found in the other cuvees, yet it's still outstanding, and it should be better this time next year.
Meaning "Lovely" in Latin, Dilecta was created in 2011 by Sommelier-turned-winemaker Orion Stang. Previously working as an assistant winemaker at Booker Vineyards, he's pulling some serious fruit from top sites throughout the central coast. As I hope these notes and scores show, the wines are terrific, and this is a winemaker to keep on your radar!
