“The Viognier is crisp and juicy with great acidity, and the Syrah has all the cold-climate spiciness you want in Syrah.” – Vinography

Exclusive to Wine Spies, we discovered this beauty unexpectedly on a recent mission…

“I have a little something special, if you want to taste it?” Stephen said.

“YES!!!” How could we refuse? All the wine he poured for us, hardened Agents that we are, left us in stunned silence. He pulled out a colorfully labeled Syrah, “It’s called ‘Fleur de C’, in honor of my granddaughter Celine.”

Clearly inspired by the Northern Rhone, bold red and black fruits and exotic spices wafted from the glass. The wine was at once youthful and plush, taut in texture, soft around the edges, with a lingering peppery finish that made us beam childishly.

Then, the bad news… he only had 25 cases. A little negotiation, and of course, we bought them all!

(And we advise that you do the same – and save 50%!)

Stephen Singer is a true Renaissance man, among the top 0.1% of wine professionals. Painter, restauranteur, importer, and farmer – he was encouraged by his first wife, chef Alice Waters, to found the Singer & Foy Wines shop in 1983 in San Francisco, a bottle shop and tasting room with a truly global scope, long before that was common. He served for 15 years as a Board Member and wine director at Chez Panisse, contributing to its pioneering role in the green revolution. He went on to open Table 29, César, and other restaurants in the Bay Area while traveling the world, continuing to learn about the best wines from the best winemakers.

Over twenty years ago, he purchased an old apple orchard and planted it to vine, naming it Baker Lane Estate. First turned on to the Northern Rhône by importer Kermit Lynch, inspired by the greats, he discovered in the Sonoma Coast a site where Viognier would similarly struggle, developing intensely flavorful and firmly textured fruit for the effort. He brought in expert viticulturist and winemaker Greg Adams, who began his career working with Michael Silacci (of Opus One) and Steve Kistler. Together, each bottle they craft reflects a deep understanding of the terroir, emphasizing fruit that is allowed to express its full virtuosity. Thanks to our swift decision, the vibrant Singer 2022 ‘Fleur de C’ Syrah Sonoma Coast is exclusive to Wine Spies. Fruity enough to enjoy lightly chilled on a hot day, complex enough to pair with grilled meats, and structured to improve in a well-kept cellar for 5-7 years…

Act swiftly before we run out!