Arnot-Roberts Sonoma Coast Que Syrah 2023

Planted in 1994, the Que Syrah vineyard is the oldest plot of Syrah found on the Sonoma Coast. With no reference point at that time for Syrah planted in such a cold area, the vineyard was named as a play on the Spanish phrase “que sera, sera." Thirty years on and the gamble seems well worth it, with this vineyard producing one of the most unique and singular expressions of Syrah found anywhere in the world. Having had full control of the site since 2018, the team at Arnot-Roberts have zeroed in on an electrifying style, the wine delighting with its spicy, aromatic personality and mouth-filling flavours of vibrant briary fruit. This is, without doubt, one of the New World's greatest Syrahs. 

96/100 - The Que Syrah has become a classic and a standout in the Arnot-Roberts lineup. The vineyard is one of the oldest Syrah plantings on the Sonoma Coast, a gem of a site for cool-climate Syrah in California. Planted in 1993, it’s located 800 feet above sea level, just 4 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The Arnot Roberts team began farming the vineyard in 2013 and purchased it in 2016. The 2023 vintage is exceptional, with slightly higher residual sugar than previous releases, adding richness to the palate. You’ll get that classic black pepper note and a lovely salty, coastal freshness. On the palate, a savoury, almost meaty character mixes well with the spices. The finish is long and smooth. With only six barrels made from this 2.5-acre vineyard, it’s a limited and expressive wine, balancing elegance and intensity beautifully. - Ana Carolina Quintela, Decanter

94/100 - The 2023 Syrah Que Syrah Vineyard is fabulous. Inky red fruit, blood orange, sage, mint and white pepper all race out of the glass. This bold cool-climate Syrah exudes personality. White pepper, mint, chalk, dried flowers and exotic spice tones lend character. The 2023 is a bit lean, but it has just enough mid-palate density to pull it all together. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous