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. 14.7% ABV. Stunning nose of dark fruits, bacon fat, olive brine and coffee. Medium body with perfect acidity. Savory and concentrated. Dark and brooding. Well balanced. Blackberry, blueberry liqueur, blood and charred meats on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. The tannins are subtle and silky. Superb Syrah. This will continue to well but is really shining now. 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.