Winemaker Notes
Once again, Funk Vineyard has produced a fascinating terroir-driven expression of Syrah, with aromas of dark fruit, loamy earth and violets, along with umami undertones of olive and anise. On the palate, it is broad and lush, with soft, textural tannins and saline and spice notes from whole-cluster fermentation adding nuance to the lush huckleberry and blueberry flavors.
Production
The 2021 vintage will be famous for its warm growing season and its drought conditions, which combined to produce historically low yields. While budbreak was two weeks ahead of normal thanks to a warm, dry spring, blustery weather during flowering caused some shatter leading to very low yields. A late-June heatwave led to incredible phenolic development, while a second heatwave during veraison spurred the vines towards early ripening. Harvest started early, with ideal weather throughout September and October, and concluded two weeks ahead of schedule without any pressure from frost or rain. With average Cabernet Sauvignon yields in Walla Walla Valley of just 1.4 tons per acre, our 2021 wines display incredible power, ripeness and intensity.