Maggie Harrison was assistant winemaker to Manfred Krankl of Sine Qua Non for eight years before moving to Oregon to take over the wine making position at Antica Terra. Lillian Winery, founded in 2004, represents Maggie’s personal project and reflects everything that she learned during her time at Sine Qua Non.
The fruit for the Lillian Syrah comes from the White Hawk, Stolpman and Bien Nacido Vineyards in Santa Barbara County.
Purple in color. 14.2% ABV. Awesome nose of black and blue fruits, olive brine and flowers. Full bodied with medium acidity. Rich, plush and concentrated. Black cherry, blueberry, charred meats and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Absolutely delicious. Everything I’ve come to expect from a Lillian Syrah. Best over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 95 points.
Lillian belongs in the discussion of best domestic syrahs with the likes of Cayuse, Saxum and Sine Qua Non.
The wine is available via the web site once a year and current vintages run about $75. The 2017 was recently released to the mailing list and is likely available at retail in the Portland area.
I previously blogged about Lillian forgoing their mailing list which is great news for those of you looking to secure a few bottles.
I agree regarding the quality of Lillian and would also add Andremily to your list. They don’t seem to fall far from the SQN tree, though Maggie & Jim are extraordinary winemakers in their own right and I do not think of them as being derivative. I would also include another of my personal faves that seems to come from a more northern Rhone direction, flys somewhat under the radar and ages beautifully; Dehlinger syrah.
I certainly agree on the quality of the Dehlinger Syrah lineup. One of my favorites.