Clos Mimi 2003 Syrah, Brave Oak Vineyard
Brave Oak Vineyard overlooks the Estrella River northeast of Paso Robles. The limestone-rich soil produced lusciously ripe grapes that were completely de-stemmed before being completely foot-trod in the wine-making process. Tim is a firm believer in the traditional, natural methods of making our favorite beverage. Robert Parker must think that Tim's methods are good, since he awarded the wine 92 points and wrote: "The 2003 Syrah Brave Oak Vineyard exhibits a dense ruby/purple hue along with a big, sweet nose of blackberries, licorice, scorched earth, and incense. It is an exotic, classic, full-bodied, rich Syrah that should age for 10-15 years based on how well it lasted during extended aeration." Production of this sensational Syrah is a mere 5 barrels, totaling 122 cases.

Note of interest: In evaluating the Clos Mimi wines, Parker monitored them over a 10 day period (as he often does) and noted: ". . . remarkably, there was absolutely no oxidation, and the wines were actually better on days 2-5 than they were when first opened . . . potential buyers take note."

Clos Mimi 2002 Syrah, White Hawk Vineyard
The White Hawk Vineyard features sandy soils, steep terrain and a very cool climate thanks to its proximity to the ocean. The grapes are in great demand, but Tim's persistence finally paid off in 2002 and he obtained a small but succulent allocation. Tim's belief in traditional methods resulted in complete de-stemming, foot-treading and the use of indigenous yeasts. Gentle handling - one barrel-to-barrel racking (on the 2003 summer solstice) and hand-bottling with no pumping - leads to outstanding wine. Parker agrees and awards it 94+ on his 100-point scale. His quote is worth considering: "A prodigious effort is the 2002 Syrah White Hawk Vineyard, which was just as fresh and remarkable on day ten as it was on day one. Aged an astonishing 44 months, a la Marcel Guigal's single vineyard Cote Roties and some of Sine Qua Non's Syrahs, it boasts an inky/blue/purple hue accompanied by classic blueberry, blackberry, camphor, and licorice scents. It is a full-bodied, impeccably balanced, dense, rich Syrah with nearly unlimited aging potential. This stunningly pure, classic Syrah was clearly fashioned from very ripe New World fruit. While accessible, it should age for two decades or more." Only 90 cases of this nectar were produced.

The prices for these extremely limited beauties are very fair, indeed, considering their high quality and limited availability.

Clos Mimi 2003 Syrah, Brave Oak Vineyard is $50.00 per bottle and the superb Clos Mimi 2002 Syrah, White Hawk Vineyard is yours for $72.00 per bottle. Buy a 6-pack and save - $285.00 for Brave Oak and $410.00 for the White Hawk. Want to sample both and still save? A mixed 6-pack - 3 of each wine - for $347.00 should fit the bill nicely.

Call the Duke today!!

Note: Prices are good while our supplies last and we reserve the right to change them at any time without notice.