Lafond Winery Syrah Santa Rita Hills
Pouring a deep maroon-purple with aromas of blackberry, dark plum, dried herbs, and white pepper. The palate has bold dark fruit flavors—blackberry, elderberry—with savory spice, mesquite, and toasted oak on the finish. Lafond Winery & Vineyards, founded by Pierre Lafond, is situated in the heart of Sta. Rita Hills AVA (part of Santa Ynez Valley). They focus on single-vineyard, cool-climate varietal wines, sourcing fruit from their own estate planted between 1972 and newer blocks.
Grape Varietal: Syrah
Feature: Sustainable
Country: United States
Region: California
Appellation: Santa Rita Hills
Grape Profile: Syrah typically features rich fruit flavors such as blackberry, plum, and blueberry. It often carries secondary notes of spices, black pepper, and sometimes smoked meat or olive-like savory elements. The use of oak in aging can introduce flavors of vanilla, toast, and coffee.
Region Profile: Sta. Rita Hills is a maritime-influenced appellation with foggy mornings, cooling pacific breezes, and east–west–facing vineyards. Its rocky soils and climate are ideal for expressive, cool‑climate grapes like Syrah, Pinot Noir & Chardonnay.
Pair with: Grilled and roasted red meats. Barbecued pork and sausages. Herb seasoned dishes using rosemary & thyme. Rich stews and hearty vegetables. Aged cheeses like cheddar and blue cheeses.
