2016 Kalen's Big Boy Blend - 32 bottles found in cellar

Syrah

SONOMA COUNTY

ALLOCATION LIST: $43.20
RETAIL: $48.00

Tasting Notes

Kalen’s is our “cozy sweater” of a Syrah and it remains one of EK’s most prominent calling cards, consistently bringing us new friends year in, year out. Absolutely stuffed with layers of fruit and lightly accented with French oak and characteristic spice, Kalen’s is undeniably compelling new-world Syrah. What’s not to love about this boisterous, enveloping red that’s also sneakily age-worthy?

Since this is the 13th consecutive release (!), introducing a new vintage of Kalen’s always makes us a little reflective on the past. Over the years the vineyard sources for this blend of Syrah have changed more than once and the winemaking has been tweaked and refined, but the soul of the wine has always remained the same.

For the first time ever, this year’s Kalen’s notably features Atoosa’s Vineyard  (62%) in the starring vineyard role with early-pressed Steiner (36%) and Las Madres (2%) filling out the chorus. Atoosa’s brambly red fruit deftly complements the waves of lush black fruit, keeping everything fresh and defined. We lowered the new oak this year to 18% and think the wine is all the better for it. But you will have to see for yourself!

DRINKING WINDOWS

Prime drinking: early 2019 — 2024
Graceful ageability: 2025 — 2027

VINEYARDS

62% Atoosa's, 36% Steiner, 2% Las Madres

CLONES

36% Alban 1, 35% 477, 27% 877, 1% 300, 1% 174

STATS

pH: 3.7  |  TA: 6.2 g/L  |  Alcohol: 15.2%
Bottling: March 23, 2018  |  Pre-Release: Fall 2018
Cases Produced: 273

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