2018 Hoopes Vineyard Syrah – “In Dogged Pursuit of Perfect Wines”
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Hoopes Vineyard has a great tagline with a picture of the dog jumping thru the hoop being “In Dogged Pursuit of Perfect Wines”. From my perspective it could be “we will jump thru hoops to make your experience enjoyable”. Known for their Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays, it was about seven years ago that I visited them. Many things have changed since then, but their wines are still stellar and the boutique and handcrafted wine remain constant. One new tag line used by Hoopes is a quote by e.e. cummings is “lips drink water, hearts drink wine”.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Lindsay Hoopes is the second generation owner of the vineyard. Her father Spencer founded the vineyard and worked the small twelve acre parcel in Oakville producing award winning wines for many years. Lindsay returned in 2012 needing to help out with an illness in the family. Taking full charge she made some unique changes including hooking up with famed vintners Anne Vawter and Jennifer Rue to produce new and bold Cabernets. Lindsay took up the challenge to develop bio-diverse farming practice initiatives for sustainability certification. Lindsay undertook the adventure to find new and unique vineyards throughout Napa Valley to augment their estate offering. She also founded a rescue sanctuary for animals. In 2020 noted and heralded winemaker Aaron Pott joined Hoopes as the winemaker with his impressive and extensive resume from Napa Valley and beyond.
One of the more enjoyable aspects of the winery is the tasting room, which was their home. Sipping and discussing various wines at the dining room table while looking out into the vineyard adds a “real touch” of genuineness to the experience without pretense.
Today they produce a Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc (Atlas Peak), Chardonnay (Carneros), Syrah (Oak Knoll), Merlot (Howell Mountain) and various levels of distinct Cabernet Sauvignon’s (from $125 to $225/bottle).
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
First on the eyes, a deep and dark coloring yet the edges possess a radiant and enticing purple/magenta hue. On the nose, a big and bold Syrah with lavender and blackberry, waft into the senses. On the palate, blackberry, black licorice and cinnamon bounce joyfully from side to side expressing a fullness in the mouth. A hint of mocha and light roasted coffee are present on the enticing finish beckoning yet another sip. On the finish minerality liken to a gravely dry creek along with the edgy tannins provided a wonderful conclusion balanced with the aforementioned fruit. This was a delightful Syrah having all the key characteristics assembled into one bottle.
The wine is an assemblage of 86% Syrah from the Oak Knoll District, 10% Viognier, 2.5% Malbec and 1.5% Merlot. Barrel treatment was 100% French oak with 25% being new and coming in at 15.7% alcohol. Only 206 cases were produced.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine was specifically selected for tonight’s dinner to go with a dry rubbed baked pork tenderloin. This was a slightly new and different recipe that is mellower than a previous one. The dry rub included chili powder, brown sugar, dried oregano, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, fine sea salt, pepper and a little extra virgin olive oil. The slices of pork tenderloin each provided ample flavors to assimilate this refreshing and exquisite wine without overpowering it. The meal was accompanied by Bok Choi, a fresh garden salad and a combination of short and long wild rice. The slices of pork tenderloin were served with Stewart and Jasper Cherry sauce.
Sláinte,
Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
January 7, 2024 at 8:09 pm
Didn’t know they did a Syrah. Love to try it. Coming in a little hot on the alcohol! Thanks, Michael.