The 2018 Hartford Outer Limits Syrah is a striking example of the high-personality wines crafted by Hartford Family Winery. Founded in 1994 by Don and Jennifer Hartford, the winery is renowned for its unique vineyard sites near the Russian River Valley and its commitment to producing expressive, limited-production wines.

Sourced from the Outer Limits Vineyard, situated on a windswept ridge near Annapolis, this Syrah benefits from a cool, mountainous terroir surrounded by redwood forests. At an elevation of 900 feet and just four miles from the Pacific Ocean, the vineyards Goldridge soils over volcanic bedrock provide a perfect balance of fruit, complexity, and structure.

Aged for 20 months in 100% French oak (38% new), the 2018 Outer Limits Syrah is a dense and spicy wine reminiscent of the great wines of the Northern Rhne. On the nose, it offers a medley of black and blue fruits, slight gamy characters, garrigue, blond tobacco, and lilac. The palate is packed with ripe blueberry and blackcurrant flavours, supported by firm tannins and a touch of black pepper.

Awarded 96 points, this is one of the finest Syrahs to be found in the Sonoma Coast region.

96 points
“Taking things to the next level, the 2018 Syrah Outer Limits is highly aromatic and expansive in its aromas of pine sap, black cherry preserve, black pepper, and wild lavender. Full-bodied, it has good lift and fresh acidity, with more energy, and notes of olive brine, and charcuterie. This red offers classic appeal, with a good balance of fruity and savory elements.”
– Audrey Frick (jebdunnuck.com)