There is a story about how this whole March afternoon unfolded. The Decanting Monterey Wine Pod went to the valley to help me decide on some wines for my upcoming DC classes. We got a little lost in the moment and I ended up being very late to the dog groomer, who by then couldn’t do much for my dog. Yikes. By the time I got home, the Wine Pod had relocated to what we call “The Micro-Climate” – our neighbor’s wind-protected patio, where they were enjoying the 2019 Herman Story Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard.
When I went to the Herman Story Website, I found it like none other. I am so intrigued that I must visit them when I go to Paso Robles. Let me share this quote with you:
“I am Russell P. From, proprietor, winemaker, and waste water specialist at Herman Story Wines.
“Herman Story Wines are made, schlepped, peddled, and drunk with friends by me. The basic web design books tell me that you’re probably here for the basics: to find release schedules, ordering information and tasting opportunities for the wines I make, which sounds pretty good to me. The less time I spend writing this stuff the more time I spend in the cellar. So here you go, all the facts with none of the filler. An aesthetic I stand by and believe my wines do too.”
About Bien Nacido Vineyard from his website: “Planted and run by the Miller family since 1969, Bien Nacido has been the source for the Central Coast’s most mythical wines and is a crown jewel of winemakers. From’s first large winemaking position was as operations manager for the Miller family’s custom crush facility. His tenure with the Millers also marked the founding of Herman Story. This represents From’s triumphant homecoming.”
2019 Herman Story Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley AVA, 15.9% ABV (Wine #732)
Winery Notes: “You knew those dance lessons would pay off one day, you just didn’t know it’d be your first day as an aircraft marshall. Glowing wands in hand, you’re on the runway, slowly at first. A little blueberry two-step, throw in a few elderberry jazz hands, sending planes off into the black licorice night. Now you’re really feeling yourself, making up your own moves. The plum-glazed tango. The black truffle twirl. The honey-pecan hop. There’s pandemonium at the gates, but no matter what the guys in the control tower say, you’re a star.” 100% New French Oak, 30 months in barrel. 360 cases made. 6-8 years aging potential.
My Review: Wow! Very dark berry in the glass. Earth and smoke on the nose. Bursting with berries on the palate. I should have gotten here earlier!
About purchasing Herman Story Wines from his home page: “…Our wine club is currently closed, but if you want to get in on the action and try some of my stuff, you can scroll down and join the MAILING LIST, or come visit me at my winery and tasting room in downtown Paso Robles at 1227 Paso Robles Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446. Our tasting room is currently OPEN by appointment for seated, outdoor tastings Thursdays through Monday, from 11-5.” Check out his home page to make an appointment!
© Decanting Monterey 2023
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