September 2022 - Ty Caton Vineyards

September 25, 2022

Behind the Grapes: Syrah

Embark on a journey through the Caton Estate Vineyard as we explore each of the five grapes we grow in the Mayacamas Mountain Range.

We’ve covered Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, next up is Syrah.

Syrah 101: Syrah vs Shiraz

Known as Shiraz in regions like Australia, thrives in notable Syrah regions in California to South Africa. This thick-skinned grape produces full-bodied red wines influenced by climate. In temperate regions, it boasts medium-plus to full-bodied mouthfeel, higher tannins, with notes of berries, herbs, and spice. Warmer climates produce fuller-bodied wines with softer tannins and earthy notes. Our Ballfield Syrah comes from two blocks on the Caton Vineyard, each with distinct characteristics. Block 1 consistently delivers bold fruit and complex flavors. Block 2 benefits from limited afternoon sun, resulting in fruit-forwardness and spice qualities.

The Origins of the Syrah Grape

Originating in France’s Northern Rhône Valley, Syrah grapes flourish, especially in the esteemed sub-region of Hermitage. By the 19th century, plantings extended south along the Rhône River, into Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon, spreading southeastward. Since the 1950s, the grape has proliferated worldwide, debuting in California during the 1970s.

Recommended Pairings

This varietal pairs wonderfully with bold foods, thanks to its round, full-bodied presence, making it a versatile match for many dishes. We recommend dark meats and spices enhance its fruit notes; for example, grilled lamb chops or peppery barbecue make excellent choices. Additionally, soft cheeses like Camembert and blue cheese, along with distinct spices such as clove and anise, accentuate Syrah’s beautifully subtle nuances. For more ideas, discover our food pairings tips on our Summer Grilling Guide.

Ty Caton Estate Ballfield Syrah

The Estate Ballfield Syrah embodies deep garnet colors, velvety mouthfeel, and a lingering finish. Roasted plum notes mingle with boysenberry and cherry flavors on the palate, complemented by that classic peppery finish. If, like us, reading this has sparked a craving for bold red wines, we invite you to stock up online or visit us for a Sonoma wine tasting! We’d be delighted to pour you a glass of the Estate Ballfield Syrah, along with the rest of Ty’s uniquely memorable wines.

Clusters of red wine grapes on the vine at Ty Caton Vineyards of Sonoma Valley

September 25, 2022

Behind the Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon

This year, we’re taking you on a journey through the Caton Estate Vineyard to discover each of the five grapes we grow up in the Mayacamas Mountain Range. First up – Cabernet Sauvignon!

More than half of our farmed 40 acres is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon grapes – that’s almost 24,000 vines! When asked why he chose to plant this famed grape, Ty said: “One of the most important first decisions a farmer must make is to plant the right varietal in the right location. I knew from my research that we have an extraordinary place, and to grow anything other than Cabernet would have been a travesty. After all, we’re in Cab Country.” You can read more about Ty’s love for Cabernet here.

Cabernet Sauvignon 101

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most widely planted dark-skinned grapes globally, only rivaled by Merlot. It prefers climates with sufficient heat and sun exposure and later winters, such as Bordeaux, Napa, Sonoma, South America, Tuscany (think Super Tuscans), and Coonawarra (Australia).

Cabernet’s most extraordinary aspect is its ability to become a wine that is so undeniably Cabernet Sauvignon. No, we’re not talking about its fruit flavors. We’re talking about its structure and ability to showcase vintage variation and terroir, along with its characteristically high tannins – a direct result of its small berry size, high pip-to-pulp ratio, and distinctively blue, thick skin. Cabernet is a deeply colored wine built for long-term aging. You’ll notice more subtle flavors in younger Cabernet Sauvignons and more robust tertiary notes in older ones. It’s commonly blended with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec in Bordeaux; Sangiovese in Tuscany; and Shiraz in Australia.

Origins of Cabernet Sauvignon

The history of Cabernet Sauvignon was shrouded in mystery until 1997. Originally thought to be a descendent of Biturica, we now know that it’s the offspring of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc (thank you, DNA profiling!). It is believed that Cabernet Sauvignon is the result of spontaneous crossing in a French vineyard in the early 18th century, and the rest is history!

Recommended Pairings

Because of the rich flavor and high tannins, Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with hearty grilled meats, peppery sauces, and dishes with intense flavors – think BBQ beef ribs, steaks, burgers, braised short ribs, and portobello mushrooms!

Are you craving a juicy Cabernet Sauvignon after reading all about it? Don’t worry, we’ve already gone through a glass just writing this. We recommend giving one of our Moon Mountain Cabernets a try the next time you reach for a bottle. If you don’t have any, we invite you to stock up here or visit us at our Tasting Room in Kenwood. Reservations are recommended and can be made here.