2016 Sequel Syrah - 1.5L

After 16 years as winemaker of Australia's iconic Penfolds Grange, John Duval came to the Columbia Valley in 2003 as the "Sequel" to his life's work with Syrah.

Like the last several growing seasons, 2016 was another hot year that required extra care in the vineyards. Building on the success of our canopy management program over the last few vintages, we worked with growers throughout the season to encourage growth of the canes and outside foliage to protect against the sun while opening up the fruit zone for even maturation. Warm temperatures in the fall hastened ripening, but the Columbia Valley's cool autumn nights protected the grapes' acidity resulting in bright, vibrant wines. 

Syrah's delicate skin requires careful handling to avoid harsh tannins so a variety of gentle fermentation techniques are used to give Sequel a wide spectrum of flavors without imparting bitterness. One-third of the grapes were whole-cluster fermented to enhance richness and dimension on the palate. Several lots underwent an Australian technique known as "rack and return" that requires draining the tank twice daily and gently putting the juice back over the top of the skins to extract color, soft tannins and aromatics. A small portion of the grapes underwent submerged cap fermentation for structure and mouthfeel. The finished wine was aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 65% new.