2022 Samuel Louis Smith - Syrah Gabilan Mountains Coastview Vyd (750ml)

Samuel Louis Smith describes himself as a micro-négociant, crafting small batches of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah from mountain sites across Monterey, the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the Sta. Rita Hills. He was mentored by the acclaimed French winemaker François Villard and currently serves as winemaker at Morgan in the Santa Lucia Highlands, bringing that classical training to his own label's focus on organically farmed, high-elevation vineyards.

Coastview Vineyard sits at roughly 2,300 feet in the Gabilan Mountains, a dramatic, organically farmed site within newly recognized AVA territory. The soils here are decomposed granite laced with veins of limestone, and the vineyard's elevation places it well above the coastal fog line, giving the fruit piercing light, brisk mountain air, and a long, slow ripening season that builds precision and lift rather than sheer power.

The wine shows a lifted, floral, and peppery character, with fresh red fruit like pomegranate and red currant layered over fennel, cracked pepper, and a wild, savory edge. Bright acidity and firm, elegant tannins carry the wine to a long, expressive finish. Pair it with seared duck breast, wild boar sausage, or aged pecorino.