The number of noteworthy wines emerging from or made from fruit sourced in Mendocino has been rising. The cooler climate there, relative to 
large portions of other parts of California really lends itself to certain varietals and styles. The second wine I'm looking at from Lionheart Wines is a Mendocino sourced Syrah.
The Lionheart Wines 2005 Syrah was sourced at the Eaglepoint Ranch in Mendocino. This offering is 95% Syrah and the balance Grenache. A tiny 25 cases of this wine were produced and it sells for $35.
Candied plum and leather notes fill the nose of this Syrah. The palate is loaded with rich, dark berry fruit flavors. Alongside those, black pepper, licorice, anise and a touch of bacon fat make their presence known as the layers of this wine emerge. Chocolate covered cherry characteristics come out towards the back of the wine and lead to finish that is filled with earth, blackberry, vanilla, white pepper, allspice and residual bacon fat notes.
What I like best about this wine is that it reminds me more of an old world Rhone style Syrah than it does the average California Syrah. A large part of the reason for that is the excellent acidity and great balance this wine has. As with the White Rhone style blend I looked at from Lionheaert, this Syrah wants to be paired with food. I had it with Pot Roast and found that to be an excellent match. Other red meats would also pair nicely as would stinky and/or well aged cheeses. Another teriffic effort from Lionheart Wines.
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