Today’s perfectly cellared and perfectly aged Samuel J. Anderson 2007 Ladi’s Vineyard Sonoma Valley Syrah was made at Deerfield Ranch Winery, by Deerfield’s winemaker, Robert Rex. This wine is drinking beautifully, and there’s still plenty of life left in it. According to Deerfield, this wine is still nearing its peak.

Bold and dark on the nose, with aromas of blackberry jam, black cherry, fig, black currant, soft spice, baker’s chocolate and a hint of black pepper. On the palate, flavors closely mimic the nose, with blackberry, black cherry compote, roasted mission fig, spice box, cocoa dust, forest floor, subtle tobacco leaf and black pepper.

Ladi’s Vineyard Syrah is located in a small valley between four famous Sonoma County appellations. Chalk Hill to the north, Bennett Valley to the south, Sonoma Valley to the east and Russian River to the west; a region of cool mornings and warm afternoons that produces noble Syrah of the sophisticated Rhone style with an appealing perfumed fruit.

Ladi Danielik’s Vineyard is in Ribli Road district in the foothills of the Mayacamus Mountains on the east side of the Santa Rosa plain in Sonoma County. Grapes have been grown in this district for almost 200 years. Ladi, like earlier immigrants, recognized this terroir as special. Its volcanic soil and warm summer days protected from the coastal influence by a ridge line, make it ideal for dark full-bodied wines. Ladi’s expertise, honed over many decades, assures that the partnership between grower and winemaker produces exceptional results. This 2007 Ladi Syrah has bold fruit and a lingering finish. It pairs perfectly with grilled steaks.