Eristavi Family Winery
2009 Syrah Amador County, CA
Victor Eristavi comes from a long winemaking tradition. His family's origins are in the
Republic of Georgia, where winemaking began as early as 6,000 B.C. Eristavi's
approach to wine combines both his Old World heritage and the modern influences of
the American wine industry. His winery, located on San Francisco's Treasure Island, produces Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel as well as Syrah. The 2009
Syrah reflects the Amador terroir with richness and sweetness up front, rounded out by a
big, earthy finish. On the nose, fruit notes of blackberry and black cherry dominate. The
wine's chewy tannins give it a thick, sturdy structure. We find the up-front sweetness a
little overpowering, but enjoy the earth and spice that come out on the back of the palate.
Try it with simple yet hearty foods like grilled tri-tip or spaghetti bolognaise. The wine
would also work well with a simple, Sunday supper of burgers and potato salad or even
pizza.