Wine Spotlight: Discover the Essence of Samuel Louis Smith's 2021 'Nelson Vineyard' Syrah at Le Central ...Now Pouring By The Glass!
- David Gabiné
- Oct 8
- 4 min read
At Le Central, we are excited to be pouring (for a limited time) the 2021 Samuel Louis Smith ‘Nelson Vineyard’ Syrah by the glass, This wine is a selection we will be pouring by CORAVIN and it also features prominently in one of our thoughtfully curated wine flights. Join us as we explore the story behind this exceptional wine, the artistry of Samuel Louis Smith, and the delightful tasting notes that make this Syrah a must-try. This will go fast, so try it while you can.
The Winemaker: Samuel Louis Smith
Samuel Louis Smith symbolizes passion and dedication in winemaking. Nestled in the gorgeous Santa Cruz Mountains, Smith has built a firm reputation for producing wines that truly reflect the region's unique terroir. His commitment to sustainable practices ensures that each wine is crafted with a deep respect for the land.
Sam believes every bottle should embody its origin's essence. This belief is evident in his meticulous attention to detail. For instance, he carefully chooses vineyard sites, vineyard management practices, monitors grape ripeness, and with a minimal intervention philosophy, he ensures each wine genuinely represents its source.
Focusing on varietals that flourish in high elevation, cool climate environments along California's Central Coast, Smith has particularly excelled with this Syrah. The 2021 Nelson Vineyard Syrah exemplifies his expertise, showcasing the grape's true potential in a region known for its cool climate. Production numbers highlight his precision: only 600 bottles (50 cases) of this vintage were made, ensuring both quality and exclusivity.
The Vineyard: Nelson Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
Nelson is located in the Summit subregion of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The site was planted to vines in 1999 after spending 30 years as a Christmas tree farm best known for silvertip firs, a variety that thrives at higher elevations. At 1700 ft, the vines growing in sandy loam and chunky sandstone are surrounded by redwoods and firs. With relatively warm days and cold nights, the wines from Nelson explode with fresh fruit, high acid, and elegant structure.
Tasting Notes: A Journey Through Flavor
The 2021 Nelson Vineyard Syrah invites exploration. Upon pouring, you will notice its deep, garnet color. The nose reveals a delightful bouquet of dark fruits, with blackberry and plum mingling with subtle hints of black pepper and smoke.
On the palate, the wine is medium bodied and well-structured, offering a balanced mix of fruit and acidity. Flavors unfold elegantly, revealing layers of dark cherry, blackberry, and a touch of earthiness, followed by cured meats, and spice. The smooth, velvety tannins create a satisfying mouthfeel that lingers long after you finish sipping.
As you enjoy this wine, you may also sense nuances of herbs and spices that add complexity to your tasting experience. The elegant finish leaves you feeling warm and content. This Syrah is not just a drink; it’s an experience that invites you to enjoy the specific terroir of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA
Pairing Suggestions
Finding the perfect food pairings can elevate your wine experience. The 2021 Nelson Vineyard Syrah is incredibly versatile and complements a number of our dishes.
For a classic match, consider pairing it with our hearty Cassoulet. The rich flavors of the cassoulet beautifully complement the wine's savory yet uplifted character. Or try it with our classic Steak-Frites with peppercorn sauce.
Additionally, cheese lovers can enjoy this Syrah with aged cheeses like our Bay Blue cheese. The balance between the wine’s fruitiness and the cheese’s saltiness creates a delightful tasting experience.
Why You Should Try It at Le Central
At Le Central, we are committed to offering a wine list showcasing the finest wines from the West Coast and France. The Samuel Louis Smith 2021 Nelson Vineyard Syrah stands out, perfectly embodying the spirit of our establishment.
By introducing this wine by the glass, we invite you to experience its unique profile without having to commit to a whole bottle. This option provides the perfect opportunity to explore the flavors and aromas that make this Syrah so distinctive. Furthermore, including it in our wine flight lets you compare it with other exceptional wines, enriching your tasting experience.
Whether you are a seasoned wine lover or just starting to explore the world of wine, the 2021 Nelson Vineyard Syrah is a delightful addition to your visit at Le Central.
Final Thoughts
Sam makes Killer wines, PERIOD! The 2021 'Nelson Vineyard' is just another stunning example, and it is one of our favorites here at Le Central. This wine represents more than just a wine; it embodies the passion and artistry of its creator. With a complex flavor profile and an elegant finish, this Syrah is an excellent choice for any occasion.
We invite you to join us at Le Central to savor this exceptional wine, whether by the glass, bottle, or as part of our curated wine flight. Discover the essence of the Santa Cruz Mountains and indulge in a tasting experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Santé
Tech
Alcohol 13.6%
pH 3.80
TA 6.9
100% whole cluster fermentation
Native alcoholic and malolactic fermentations
Ten months élévage in 50% second-fill and 50% neutral French oak barrels
Two barrels • 45 cases produced
Unfined & unfiltered
Comments