2020 The Big Canyon
Starfield Estate El Dorado AVA
Tasting Notes
The 2020 Big Canyon possesses the true essence of a bold red blend! This GSM blend features our savory Syrah, complemented by a bright Grenache, and an opulent Mourvèdre. The fruit was hand-selected and aged for 18 months in 100% French oak to create a blend of Rhône varietals that is richly sophisticated, multi-layered, and where all elements come together effortlessly.
Wild rose & plumeria, with hints of juniper bush & graphite rise up in the glass, while bolder aromas of lingonberry jam, chocolate covered cherry, ripe plum, & caramelized fig build density. Undertones of freshly chopped wood, smoked meats, & chocolate truffle round out this fully packed bouquet. The palate is rich & focused opening with notes of cranberry, currant jam, red velvet cake, & cherry cola, with subtle tones of vanilla & anise. The tannins are velvety & incredibly well integrated, leaving you with a just a hint of numbing Szechwan peppercorn. This wine showcases the magic that can happen when blending Grenache, Syrah, & Mourvedre, becoming much more than the sum of its parts. Drink now through 2030.
Wine Profile
| Grape Variety: |
42% Syrah, 27% Mourvédre, 22% Grenache, 7% Petite Sirah, 2% Roussanne |
| Appellation: | El Dorado AVA |
| Vineyard: | Starfield Estate |
| Vines: | Planted 2013-2016 |
| Elevation & Site: | 2,300-2,400 feet. Grenache and Mourvèdre are planted near the top of the hill, where they bask in the afternoon sun, as does Petite Sirah, which is planted on a south-facing slope just below the lake. Syrah grows on cooler north-facing slopes near the Tasting Room, and Roussanne grows in a cooler section of the vineyard, on a northeast-facing slope. |
| Alcohol: | 15.1% |
| pH: | 3.63 |
| Acidity g/L: | 5.9 |
| Cellaring: | 18 months in 30% new French oak, 70% neutral French oak |
| Bottling Date: | June 2022 |
| Production: | 602 cases |
Download this Wine's Technical Information Sheet
Food Pairings
Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies, Roasted Lamb, Chocolate Covered Figs, Barbequed Ribs, Smoked Ribs, Duck Confit, Roasted Portabello, Flourless Chocolate Cake, Filet Mignon topped with Blackberry Compote
Wine Awards and Accolades
- 90 Points - Wine Enthusiast
- Best of Class - San Francisco Chronicle
- 90 Points - Best Rhones - Wine & Spirits