Hermitage, Meritage, Syrage. These wines define winemaking.

Hermitage is 315+ acres of grapes in the Rhone Valley of France, with the reds, primarily made from Syrah (Shiraz to the Aussies).

Meritage was coined to differentiate the blends of select wineries in the United States as opposed to those in Bordeaux, France. Red Meritage wines are made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and Malbec.

Syrage defines the essence of three varieties but one wine and the best of Hermitage and Meritage. The Mara Wine Group created Syrage Lot 7 to go beyond the one grape/one wine philosophy. This allows our winemaking staff the latitude to build wines of balance to meet the discriminating consumer's desires. Syrah is our pedigree, contributing balance with 18 months of oak aging from our vineyards in the Sierra Foothills. Our Petite Sirah from the Central Coast (Paso Robles) fills the mouth with fruit and demands you savor before swallowing. By using the Bordeaux variety, Cabernet Sauvignon, also from the Central Coast, we added color and structure. Also, 18 months in small French barrels. While the label says California, it is the best of California's regions. These areas are renowned for their Rhone varietals and early, ripe, intense, balanced Bordeaux reds which have attracted collectors worldwide. Our 2008 Syrage exhibits raspberry aromas with a touch of ginger and hints of toffee. The wine is polished with a soft and wonderful hint of spice. As always, it compliments grilled beef dishes as well as saucy sea food and fowl.

Mara Syrage Lot 7 can be consumed now but will mature with several more years of aging. We find that our Syrage, Lot 7, 2008, can be enjoyed all by itself, however, if someone happens to offer barbequed Baby back ribs, grilled vegetables and garlic fries with smoked home made catsup, SAY YES, and bring on the Syrage!!!!!!!!!