Rôtie is our homage to Cote-Rotie, the Northern Rhone AOC famous for its traditional co-fermentation of Syrah and Viognier. Viognier was traditionally used in the copigmentation process where white grape tannin aids in color stability. The process also helps to bring out the aromatics of the wine while adding a floral component. We find that the Syrah that the La Cruz Vineyard produces is much more fruity and bright than our Rhone counterparts, however, using a touch of Viognier allows the subtle earthiness of the Syrah to showcase more while lending more structure and acidity to the wine.
2013 was a wonderful growing season here in the Petaluma Gap. Uniquely mild temperatures throughout the season (average temperatures ranged between 70º to 75º, which was 4-5º below the average temperature here in the Petaluma Gap and almost 10º lower than other parts of Sonoma County) allowed us time to pick the fruit at optimum maturity.
Although Syrah can be a very powerful grape, the Rotie is soft and elegant with gorgeous aromatics. Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with soft floral aromatics taunt the senses, giving you more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.
2014 Rôtie, Sonoma Coast
91 Points, Robert Parker
The medium garnet-purple colors 2014 Rotie opens with notes of warm plums, blackberry compote and black peppercorns with hints of bacon fat, dried Provence herbs, garrigue and aniseed. The palate is packed with spicy and savory-laced black fruit preserves with a chewy backbone and just enough freshness, finishing long and peppery.
The entire growing cycle for 2014 was two weeks early at every stage. The majority of the rains came in February, saving us from one of the driest seasons ever. The total rainfall for the season amounted to just above 15 inches, which was 5 inches short of normal. Mild winter temperatures and absolutely no rain in March warmed the soils earlier than normal which led to early bud break and then to flowering and an early harvest by the same two weeks.
Syrah can be a very powerful grape, tempered by the Viognier, our Rotie is soft and elegant with gorgeous floral aromatics. Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with those same floral aromatics to taunt the senses, giving you more and more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.
2015 Rôtie, Sonoma Coast
As a growing season, 2015 was driven by the story of May. Early on, December and February rains saturated our soils and filled the reservoirs. A warm March and April engendered early bud break and full bloom, helping Keller Estate avoid many of the complications of the surprisingly cold May that followed, initiating and instigating an unusually poor fruit set throughout Northern California. Like our neighbors, however, our grape clusters and berry sizes were uneven. Smaller berries led to low yields, but also concentrated flavors and intense quality.
Although Syrah can be a very powerful grape, the Rotie is soft and elegant with gorgeous aromatics. Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with soft floral aromatics taunt the senses, giving you more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.
Winery: Keller Estate
Owner: Ana Keller
Founded: 2000
Location: Petaluma, CA
Our mission is to share the passing of time through our family’s vineyard.
Arturo Keller and his wife Deborah first fell in love with the site while driving a vintage car through the meandering Sonoma roads, and selected the property for its potential as a site for a world-class vineyard. Clearly, the property’s beauty, setting, and history influenced our decision to make it our home.
In 1989, we planted the first Chardonnay vines, and La Cruz vineyard was born. Our first vintage was sold to Rombauer Vineyards, who rapidly became excited with the potential of the site, giving us confidence in our fruit. By 1999, we planted a few acres of Pinot Noir and recognized the potential to make our own exceptional wines. In 2000, the Keller Estate label became a reality. Shortly after, in collaboration with the prestigious Mexican firm of Legorreta+Legorreta we designed and built our stunning and functional winery, designed specifically for gravity flow winemaking.
Ana Keller, Arturo’s daughter and a biochemist by training, joined the team eager to create the most exquisite wines from the Estate’s vineyards. With Arturo’s constant vision and encouragement, Ana’s passion has established Keller Estate as a benchmark for producing some of the best wines in the Sonoma Coast. Her passion and dedication has been instrumental in establishing Petaluma Gap AVA and promoting the wines of this region worldwide.
We invite you to visit us and share our passion.
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
When I got the e-mail from Ariana (glad I checked before I left work!) this afternoon that I had been called to “rat” duty tonight I panicked a bit. The rats have been setting a high bar lately and I haven’t ratted in ages. More panic…I’m ratting TWO bottles. I reached out to Ariana to find out what the bottles wound be and…more panic! Syrah! I like Syrah, but rarely reach for it. Knowing I probably didn’t have an appropriate dinner planned, I stopped on my way home and picked up some bbq ribs and a grilled portobello sandwich. I rarely drink on weeknights these days. But I suppose I can take one (or two!) for the team! I retrieved the precious cargo from the package room in my building and let the festivities begin (after throwing stuff load of laundry in the washer ).
2015
Popped and poured at room temp.
Very little staining on the cork (maybe 1/8 inch, but deeply colored.
Beautiful, inky, dark garnet color. Clear, with a hint of purple around the edges. Long, slow moving legs on swirling.
Nose
Initial: Alcohol. Needs CPR.
10-15 minutes (and over the course of the evening): Aaah, much better. Dark red fruit raspberry, cherry, and a lovely floral perfume I’m going to call rose and violet with a slight hint of lavender.
Palate
Dark fruit, a bit tart (raspberry, plum), spicy, black pepper, nice tannins, but not “drying”. Solid acid backbone.
2013
Popped and poured at room temp.
Very little staining on the cork (maybe 1/8 inch, but deeply colored).
Beautiful,inky, dark garnet color, clear, without the hint of purple around the edges noted in the 2015. Long, thin legs formed more quickly than in the 2015 and dropping faster.
Nose
Initial: Alcohol. Needs to breathe a bit.
10-15 minutes (and over the course of the evening): Completely different than the 2015. Much less fruit and floral notes, initially. Blackberry and blueberry come to mind, but also a stronger earthy/herbal presence. For now, I’m going to call it “earthy mint” with some black pepper and wet stone or gravel. After an hour or so, the floral notes start to come out (rose, primarily).
Palate
10-15 minutes (and over the course of the evening): Less “fruit” than the 2015. Similar acid backbone, nice, smooth tannins. More velvety… More earthy and herbal but definitely still some fruit (blackberry, blueberry, black currant).
Both wines are full bodied, well structured, and delicious. To my nose and palate, I’m not getting the anise/licorice I usually expect from Syrah. I’m also not getting the metallic/bloody meat notes I sometimes find. Both wines are delicious and paired very well with both the ribs and the portobello.
I’ve sealed the bottles with Repour stoppers and plan to revisit tomorrow evening. A girl can only taste so much on a weeknight. To be continued…
PS: Both paired well with chocolate cake. You know, for science.
I’ve sealed the bottles with Repour stoppers and plan to revisit tomorrow evening.
I would almost be more curious to see how they do without the Repour. I’ll frequently hold off and let them consume some O2 and see what they do; how they hold up.
When a bottle is in a sweet spot, then the Repour to keep it there.
@karenhynes I am far from any authority, what a joke to think otherwise would be, but if a bottle holds up well or even improves just recorked on the counter (when not sweltering), I tend to think it shows more promise for a bit of cellaring.
This is where some in-the-biz winemaker opinion would be appreciated.
@rjquillin
I’m also far from an authority, but your suggestion makes perfect sense. Thanks for that! The dynamic duo are resting comfortably on the counter, sans Repour. I pulled them out last night as I stumbled to bed. Stay tuned for more notes tonight.
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
Keller Estate Rôtie Vertical - $80 = 28.56%
@hscottk I also got one in the BD10 deal, and when I saw this up today I decided to pop it open. Tastes to me like it’s in a great place now; a great melange of fruit, tannins, acidity, and minerality. Works with my supper (potato & tomato stew) and on its own. Hmm, I may have to get some chocolate cake to try @karenhynes pairing for myself, tomorrow. I’ll pick up a case of these, I’m betting they’ll be pretty good for the next several years.
I have not had any of these vintages, but SWMBO and I very much enjoyed the 2011at a Restaurant in Petaluma after the 2018 rpm Magical History Tour - Lodi & Amador, and have been enjoying the case of 2013 from the offer last Spring. I’ve like all of the Keller wines I’ve tried. This is pretty much an rpmAUTOBUY
@rlmanzo These wines are not like the huge Paso syrahs (which are usually not to my taste), rather they’re more balanced, not quite ‘austere’ (to use your word), but restrained. Plenty of fruit, nice aromatics, but really shine as food wines. Harmonious. I can’t say they’re “great” wines for the ages - I just don’t have enough experience with these sorts of wines in California to be comfortable predicting how they’ll hold up in another decade or two - but they’re certainly an outstanding accompaniment for Michelin star quality food.
Quick questions to the winemaker: Is there Viognier in the 2014 and 2015 vintages of your Rotie? If so, I don’t see it in the stated specifications and would like to know the % blend in the 14 and 15. I love Syrah, but I have an adequate supply. I like to venture when it comes to blends and I’d go in for this if all three vintages are the Syrah/Viognier blend.
I believe this is a review of the 2014 from WE:
Keller 2014 Rotie Syrah-Viognier (Sonoma Coast)
93 Points
Made in homage to Côtes du Rhône, combining 94% Syrah and 6% Viognier, this opens in lavender, violet and garrigue, inviting and smooth. The velvety texture continues, with a spicy savory edginess of white pepper, blackberry and cured meat. https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/keller-2014-rotie-syrah-viognier-sonoma-coast/
…and the 2013
Keller 2013 Rotie Red (Sonoma Coast)
86 Points
Co-fermented with 4% Viognier, this is deeply floral on the nose. Tomato leaf, soy and lavender notes provide a savory, herbal landscape, yet it remains bright on the palate, as licorice and garrigue flavors float in.
Why are the same tasting notes given for the 2013 and 2015 on the offer page? The only things different are the specs. Just wondering if they really were that exactly similar. Quotation below:
“Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with soft floral aromatics taunt the senses, giving you more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.”
@browncj7@winedavid49
It appears standard shipping is available for the 3-pack but not the case. Is this correct that it is truly sold out for just the case? Does this need to be fixed or can you add an explanation to the front page please if this is correct? I’m holding off on my order until we hear back as it’s in the 60s/70s and I don’t need ice quite yet. Thank you
A surprise package arrived right before I left on a trip for work yesterday, and upon opening it discovered not one, but two bottles of Keller Rotie, the 2014 and 2015. I tossed them in the car and left for my almost 5 hour drive to Pittsburgh. During the drive I received the email that the offering was going up today. Yikes!
Pulled in at 9pm and opened the 2014. Had to put it in the fridge for a while to get it down to cellar temp, and the wine also needed some air.
Getting some red fruit and some faint florals on the nose. Palate has red fruit, some pepper, good acidity, lush tannin structure, and a pleasant finish. Most definitely a well made wine. Closed, so tasted it over the next hour or so.
We drink a ton of Syrah, and enjoy CA Syrah, but sometimes miss the savory/briney element you can get in Washington Syrah (Reynvaan) or some French Syrah.
This wine started to develop some savory notes- my wife noticed some faint tomato, and we started to get some general sense of herbs showing up. I look forward to trying it again when I’m back from rehearsal today around 5pm, and I will report back, and also open the 2015 and compare/contrast.
This does evoke some memories of Wellington Estate Syrah in the fruit profile, and it has more of the herb and savory elements.
Very good, seems like a screaming deal at this price!]1
The rat that almost wasn’t!
A surprise package arrived right before I left on a trip for work yesterday, and upon opening it discovered not one, but two bottles of Keller Rotie, the 2014 and 2015. I tossed them in the car and left for my almost 5 hour drive to Pittsburgh. During the drive I received the email that the offering was going up today. Yikes!
Pulled in at 9pm and opened the 2014. Had to put it in the fridge for a while to get it down to cellar temp, and the wine also needed some air.
Getting some red fruit and some faint florals on the nose. Palate has red fruit, some pepper, good acidity, lush tannin structure, and a pleasant finish. Most definitely a well made wine. Closed, so tasted it over the next hour or so.
We drink a ton of Syrah, and enjoy CA Syrah, but sometimes miss the savory/briney element you can get in Washington Syrah (Reynvaan) or some French Syrah.
This wine started to develop some savory notes- my wife noticed some faint tomato, and we started to get some general sense of herbs showing up. I look forward to trying it again when I’m back from rehearsal today around 5pm, and I will report back, and also open the 2015 and compare/contrast.
This does evoke some memories of Wellington Estate Syrah in the fruit profile, and it has more of the herb and savory elements. Getting better and better with air.
Very good, seems like a screaming deal at this price!
2014 is drinking even better than yesterday after being corked in the fridge overnight. Still very polished and lush, more herbs, longer finish, still lots of life left.
Opened the 2015, and it’s a very similar wine, with the savory herbs more prominent right away. More focused, but still lush, a bit more earthy, fun to try another vintage of the same wine.
Paired both of these with sous vide pork Marsala tonight for dinner and they were great food wines. Really enjoyable with a meal.
Definitely not fruit bomb Syrahs, but instead elegant, restrained and beautifully polished examples of CA Syrah. I agree with RPM, ordered a case at this price.
@wnance Didn’t know that wine tasted good in Pittsburgh?? Though we know that wine does taste better in all parts of Ohio, but especially in CLEVELAND!! See the Steelers in the fall!!! Great rivalry is gonna be better this year!!
@PLSemenza@rjquillin
I sure as hell don’t need more wine. Even if I want this. Whatever
We just dragged 19 bottles back from Europe with us…so over the bottle number budget for the year, and it’s not even end June!
Well, between two labrats, and the rpm Autobuy, I couldn’t take it. I really do love Syrah; it’s one of my favorites. I’m only getting one of each. I selected the Summer Shipping. Currently, we’re venturing close to triple digits. I’m crossing my fingers.
Any pairing recommendations from folks who have tried the Keller Rotie from a previous offering? I assume this would go great with lamb but could it stand up to a ribeye?
@propvin I agree that it would be great with lamb. Maybe a ribeye- it’s not a tannic monster, but does have good structure. I guess you’ll have to try it and let us know! Fantastic with pork Marsala tonight.
Any of the Minnesota gang interested in a split? No South Dakota delivery, so I’d have to rely on someone else to place an order. I’d be in for a 3-pack.
I received the Golden ticket e-mail on my flight home to New Orleans yesterday but missed the Fed Ex guy, so apologies for the delayed review. Was surprised to find not one but two bottles in the box and upon closer inspection realized I had a 2013 Keller Estate and a 1-year younger sibling. Popped them both open and noticed a dark red cork on both but darker on the 2014.
The wife and I tried the 2013 first, which was dark ruby red and not very translucent in appearance, it a good amount of dark berry on the nose. Upon our first sips it was very smooth, well balanced, nice mouthfeel, and low acid. We felt it would be nice with fish or pasta but probably not steak. My wife’s retail guess on this was $60.
The 2014 was identical in color, but had more alcohol on the nose. Upon initial tasting this one immediately tasted more vibrant and brighter but not quite as balanced as the 2013 yet. Retail guess was $50.
We came back to each in about a half hour, and the 2014 opened up and mellowed a bit. The vertical tasting had us dreaming past vineyard travels. However, with a terrible 2 year old in tow, we’ll have to settle for a glass on the couch after she’s down. In for a case!
Ok…rattage, part two. I got home from work pretty late tonight so these notes may be a bit brief.
Paired with a repeat of last night’s dinner (ribs, grilled portobello sammich. No chocolate cake. )
Both bottles were left at room temp on the counter overnight, uncorked (yes, Ron, I dragged myself out of bed and removed the Repour stoppers . Thanks for the great suggestion). Original corks were replaced in the morning, until I got home around 8:30.
Palate: Both vintages have mellowed fruit notes. The dark/red fruits are still there, but definitely in the background. Both seem well balanced, nice round mouthfeel, medium finish. The earthy, herbal notes are more prominent, but the wines are still “bright”.
Hold on…I need to go pour some more…
Nose: OK. I LOVE the nose on both of these. They both have a lovely, floral, almost perfume-like quality, along with a healthy dose of earthy, woody, herbal notes. I can’t seem to pinpoint any specific herb.
That’s all I can come up with for tonight. I still have enough left to taste again tomorrow, but again, I suspect any notes will be late in the evening as my family is arriving in town tomorrow. No promises…
Hi fellow syrah lovers: I’ve been working the New Jersey market all.day. Hope I answered most questions: if I missed something let me know, and I get working on it! Thank you to all who’ve supported this offer. Truly, thank you. Always learn so much!
@anakellerw
There was an earlier question about tasting notes on the main page.
It seems both the '13 and '15 have identical notes;
The labs do differ.
Could you review them and let us know if the notes need a correction?
Unrelated to this offer, but a shout out to Casemates for their outstanding customer service. Very much appreciated and one of the things that makes Casemates as great as it is!
I normally don’t favor the California Syrahs because they tend to be too “fruity” as I prefer some of the WA state versions, such as Syncline which is a favorite winery of mine. However, the reviews on this, and the words “wet earth” convinced me. I like earth in my wine! That’s where it came from anyway (earth), might as well taste a bit like it.
@jmdavidson1@rjquillin (@thelecroy and) I couldn’t get enough local support for a case of this, with funds low. When I saw the WTSO offer, we jumped on it, so that’s 2 for each of us to try. So if/when the deal comes back here (probably '14/'15/'16 ?), I’ll be ready, armed with having tasted it.
Received my Keller today before noon (thank you Mr. FedX for stopping early) and it was slightly cool to the touch with regular shipping. Happy!
I wish I could say the same for the Flying Goat Petit Sirah that showed up 3 hours later.
@rjquillin The PN was summer shipping (first time I sprung for that) and arrived warm. A different FedX truck. I just figured it was the extra 3+ hours riding around the countryside. There are many variables to that I’m sure. We are having our first big heat wave now, finally summer in MI.
Tasting Notes
Rôtie is our homage to Cote-Rotie, the Northern Rhone AOC famous for its traditional co-fermentation of Syrah and Viognier. Viognier was traditionally used in the copigmentation process where white grape tannin aids in color stability. The process also helps to bring out the aromatics of the wine while adding a floral component. We find that the Syrah that the La Cruz Vineyard produces is much more fruity and bright than our Rhone counterparts, however, using a touch of Viognier allows the subtle earthiness of the Syrah to showcase more while lending more structure and acidity to the wine.
Vintage and Winemaker Notes
2013 Rôtie, Sonoma Coast
93 Points, Wine Spectator
2013 was a wonderful growing season here in the Petaluma Gap. Uniquely mild temperatures throughout the season (average temperatures ranged between 70º to 75º, which was 4-5º below the average temperature here in the Petaluma Gap and almost 10º lower than other parts of Sonoma County) allowed us time to pick the fruit at optimum maturity.
Although Syrah can be a very powerful grape, the Rotie is soft and elegant with gorgeous aromatics. Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with soft floral aromatics taunt the senses, giving you more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.
2014 Rôtie, Sonoma Coast
91 Points, Robert Parker
The medium garnet-purple colors 2014 Rotie opens with notes of warm plums, blackberry compote and black peppercorns with hints of bacon fat, dried Provence herbs, garrigue and aniseed. The palate is packed with spicy and savory-laced black fruit preserves with a chewy backbone and just enough freshness, finishing long and peppery.
The entire growing cycle for 2014 was two weeks early at every stage. The majority of the rains came in February, saving us from one of the driest seasons ever. The total rainfall for the season amounted to just above 15 inches, which was 5 inches short of normal. Mild winter temperatures and absolutely no rain in March warmed the soils earlier than normal which led to early bud break and then to flowering and an early harvest by the same two weeks.
Syrah can be a very powerful grape, tempered by the Viognier, our Rotie is soft and elegant with gorgeous floral aromatics. Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with those same floral aromatics to taunt the senses, giving you more and more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.
2015 Rôtie, Sonoma Coast
As a growing season, 2015 was driven by the story of May. Early on, December and February rains saturated our soils and filled the reservoirs. A warm March and April engendered early bud break and full bloom, helping Keller Estate avoid many of the complications of the surprisingly cold May that followed, initiating and instigating an unusually poor fruit set throughout Northern California. Like our neighbors, however, our grape clusters and berry sizes were uneven. Smaller berries led to low yields, but also concentrated flavors and intense quality.
Although Syrah can be a very powerful grape, the Rotie is soft and elegant with gorgeous aromatics. Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with soft floral aromatics taunt the senses, giving you more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.
Specifications
Vintage: 2013
Vintage: 2014
Vintage: 2015
Price Comparison
2013: $733.13/case at Keller Estate (including shipping)
2014: $703.38/case at Keller Estate (including shipping)
2015: Not for sale online
About The Winery
Winery: Keller Estate
Owner: Ana Keller
Founded: 2000
Location: Petaluma, CA
Our mission is to share the passing of time through our family’s vineyard.
Arturo Keller and his wife Deborah first fell in love with the site while driving a vintage car through the meandering Sonoma roads, and selected the property for its potential as a site for a world-class vineyard. Clearly, the property’s beauty, setting, and history influenced our decision to make it our home.
In 1989, we planted the first Chardonnay vines, and La Cruz vineyard was born. Our first vintage was sold to Rombauer Vineyards, who rapidly became excited with the potential of the site, giving us confidence in our fruit. By 1999, we planted a few acres of Pinot Noir and recognized the potential to make our own exceptional wines. In 2000, the Keller Estate label became a reality. Shortly after, in collaboration with the prestigious Mexican firm of Legorreta+Legorreta we designed and built our stunning and functional winery, designed specifically for gravity flow winemaking.
Ana Keller, Arturo’s daughter and a biochemist by training, joined the team eager to create the most exquisite wines from the Estate’s vineyards. With Arturo’s constant vision and encouragement, Ana’s passion has established Keller Estate as a benchmark for producing some of the best wines in the Sonoma Coast. Her passion and dedication has been instrumental in establishing Petaluma Gap AVA and promoting the wines of this region worldwide.
We invite you to visit us and share our passion.
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Estimated Delivery
Friday, July 5th - Monday, July 8th
Keller Estate Rôtie
3 bottles for $69.99 $23.33/bottle + $2.67/bottle shipping
Case of 12 for $199.99 $16.67/bottle + $1/bottle shipping
2013
2014
2015
When I got the e-mail from Ariana (glad I checked before I left work!) this afternoon that I had been called to “rat” duty tonight I panicked a bit. The rats have been setting a high bar lately and I haven’t ratted in ages. More panic…I’m ratting TWO bottles. I reached out to Ariana to find out what the bottles wound be and…more panic! Syrah! I like Syrah, but rarely reach for it. Knowing I probably didn’t have an appropriate dinner planned, I stopped on my way home and picked up some bbq ribs and a grilled portobello sandwich. I rarely drink on weeknights these days. But I suppose I can take one (or two!) for the team! I retrieved the precious cargo from the package room in my building and let the festivities begin (after throwing stuff load of laundry in the washer
).
2015
Popped and poured at room temp.
Very little staining on the cork (maybe 1/8 inch, but deeply colored.
Beautiful, inky, dark garnet color. Clear, with a hint of purple around the edges. Long, slow moving legs on swirling.
Nose
Initial: Alcohol. Needs CPR.
10-15 minutes (and over the course of the evening): Aaah, much better. Dark red fruit raspberry, cherry, and a lovely floral perfume I’m going to call rose and violet with a slight hint of lavender.
Palate
Dark fruit, a bit tart (raspberry, plum), spicy, black pepper, nice tannins, but not “drying”. Solid acid backbone.
2013
Popped and poured at room temp.
Very little staining on the cork (maybe 1/8 inch, but deeply colored).
Beautiful,inky, dark garnet color, clear, without the hint of purple around the edges noted in the 2015. Long, thin legs formed more quickly than in the 2015 and dropping faster.
Nose
Initial: Alcohol. Needs to breathe a bit.
10-15 minutes (and over the course of the evening): Completely different than the 2015. Much less fruit and floral notes, initially. Blackberry and blueberry come to mind, but also a stronger earthy/herbal presence. For now, I’m going to call it “earthy mint” with some black pepper and wet stone or gravel. After an hour or so, the floral notes start to come out (rose, primarily).
Palate
10-15 minutes (and over the course of the evening): Less “fruit” than the 2015. Similar acid backbone, nice, smooth tannins. More velvety… More earthy and herbal but definitely still some fruit (blackberry, blueberry, black currant).
Both wines are full bodied, well structured, and delicious. To my nose and palate, I’m not getting the anise/licorice I usually expect from Syrah. I’m also not getting the metallic/bloody meat notes I sometimes find. Both wines are delicious and paired very well with both the ribs and the portobello.
I’ve sealed the bottles with Repour stoppers and plan to revisit tomorrow evening. A girl can only taste so much on a weeknight. To be continued…
PS: Both paired well with chocolate cake. You know, for science.
@karenhynes
I would almost be more curious to see how they do without the Repour. I’ll frequently hold off and let them consume some O2 and see what they do; how they hold up.
When a bottle is in a sweet spot, then the Repour to keep it there.
@karenhynes Nice ratting!
Sounds like my kind of Syrah. But here we go again with a Keller offer when I am so far beyond having space!
@rjquillin
I could pull them out if you think it’s more worthwhile.
@karenhynes I am far from any authority, what a joke to think otherwise would be, but if a bottle holds up well or even improves just recorked on the counter (when not sweltering), I tend to think it shows more promise for a bit of cellaring.
This is where some in-the-biz winemaker opinion would be appreciated.
@rjquillin
I’m also far from an authority, but your suggestion makes perfect sense. Thanks for that! The dynamic duo are resting comfortably on the counter, sans Repour. I pulled them out last night as I stumbled to bed. Stay tuned for more notes tonight.
@karenhynes Nice Ratage!! You have me waiting for the sequel tonight!!
@karenhynes Nice job! I’ve enjoyed Keller syrah in the past but have not had any of these vintages being offered.
@anakellerw @karenhynes @rjquillin
In a whisper reply, the producer comments…
These wines like to breathe. It softens the tanks and smooths them out. Why don’t you make a test?
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
Keller Estate Rôtie Vertical - $80 = 28.56%
I haven’t cracked the ‘12 Rotie I received in the BD10 mystery 6er, but fully enjoyed the Casa table wine and ‘12 Pinot Gris. FWIW.
@hscottk I also got one in the BD10 deal, and when I saw this up today I decided to pop it open. Tastes to me like it’s in a great place now; a great melange of fruit, tannins, acidity, and minerality. Works with my supper (potato & tomato stew) and on its own. Hmm, I may have to get some chocolate cake to try @karenhynes pairing for myself, tomorrow.
I’ll pick up a case of these, I’m betting they’ll be pretty good for the next several years.
Thanks for the great notes @karenhynes This sounds like my style Syrah. In for a case.
Woof. This sounds right up my alley but with buying a house and starting a business I just don’t think I can swing
I have not had any of these vintages, but SWMBO and I very much enjoyed the 2011at a Restaurant in Petaluma after the 2018 rpm Magical History Tour - Lodi & Amador, and have been enjoying the case of 2013 from the offer last Spring. I’ve like all of the Keller wines I’ve tried. This is pretty much an rpm AUTOBUY
@rpm an rpm Autobuy has a lot of gravitas in my book. However, could you explain a bit more about why you like them so much?
I love Halcon’s Alturas Syrah(also co-fermented with viognier I believe) because it is a decent Calie example of the Northern Rhone.
Are these more austere, meat-driven or more fruit driven like those huge Paso syrahs?(that also have their place)
@rlmanzo These wines are not like the huge Paso syrahs (which are usually not to my taste), rather they’re more balanced, not quite ‘austere’ (to use your word), but restrained. Plenty of fruit, nice aromatics, but really shine as food wines. Harmonious. I can’t say they’re “great” wines for the ages - I just don’t have enough experience with these sorts of wines in California to be comfortable predicting how they’ll hold up in another decade or two - but they’re certainly an outstanding accompaniment for Michelin star quality food.
Quick questions to the winemaker: Is there Viognier in the 2014 and 2015 vintages of your Rotie? If so, I don’t see it in the stated specifications and would like to know the % blend in the 14 and 15. I love Syrah, but I have an adequate supply. I like to venture when it comes to blends and I’d go in for this if all three vintages are the Syrah/Viognier blend.
/giphy typical-misted-wool
I believe this is a review of the 2014 from WE:
Keller 2014 Rotie Syrah-Viognier (Sonoma Coast)
93 Points
Made in homage to Côtes du Rhône, combining 94% Syrah and 6% Viognier, this opens in lavender, violet and garrigue, inviting and smooth. The velvety texture continues, with a spicy savory edginess of white pepper, blackberry and cured meat.
https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/keller-2014-rotie-syrah-viognier-sonoma-coast/
…and the 2013
Keller 2013 Rotie Red (Sonoma Coast)
86 Points
Co-fermented with 4% Viognier, this is deeply floral on the nose. Tomato leaf, soy and lavender notes provide a savory, herbal landscape, yet it remains bright on the palate, as licorice and garrigue flavors float in.
https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/keller-2013-rotie-red-sonoma-coast/
and a comment from W&S on the 2014:
https://www.wineandspiritsmagazine.com/wine/entry/keller-estate-2014-sonoma-coast-rotie-syrah
fwiw
Oh, and the 2013 was offered here in April:
https://casemates.com/forum/topics/keller-estate-rtie-vertical?sort=most-likes
/giphy engaging-humdrum-margarita
@wmhatch I really enjoyed this show (Last Man on Earth)
@browncj7 I’ve not watched but heard good things. Maybe I’ll queue it up. Thanks for tip!
@wmhatch
Why are the same tasting notes given for the 2013 and 2015 on the offer page? The only things different are the specs. Just wondering if they really were that exactly similar. Quotation below:
“Dark fruit and wet earth rounded out with soft floral aromatics taunt the senses, giving you more as the wine opens up in the glass. Blackberries and plums with notes of exotic spices lend a perfect balance to the soft velvety tannins with a prolonged finish.”
Can’t get regular shipping?
I ordered it anyway (misted-limp-scene). Was standard shipping (sold out) a mistake?
@browncj7 @winedavid49
It appears standard shipping is available for the 3-pack but not the case. Is this correct that it is truly sold out for just the case? Does this need to be fixed or can you add an explanation to the front page please if this is correct? I’m holding off on my order until we hear back as it’s in the 60s/70s and I don’t need ice quite yet. Thank you
Any NOVA interest? Check out the NOVA thread.
Argh! I have to let this one go. @thelecroy can take 2 bottles, but I can’t afford 10. Dang, gotta pass.
The rat that almost wasn’t!
A surprise package arrived right before I left on a trip for work yesterday, and upon opening it discovered not one, but two bottles of Keller Rotie, the 2014 and 2015. I tossed them in the car and left for my almost 5 hour drive to Pittsburgh. During the drive I received the email that the offering was going up today. Yikes!
Pulled in at 9pm and opened the 2014. Had to put it in the fridge for a while to get it down to cellar temp, and the wine also needed some air.
Getting some red fruit and some faint florals on the nose. Palate has red fruit, some pepper, good acidity, lush tannin structure, and a pleasant finish. Most definitely a well made wine. Closed, so tasted it over the next hour or so.
We drink a ton of Syrah, and enjoy CA Syrah, but sometimes miss the savory/briney element you can get in Washington Syrah (Reynvaan) or some French Syrah.
This wine started to develop some savory notes- my wife noticed some faint tomato, and we started to get some general sense of herbs showing up. I look forward to trying it again when I’m back from rehearsal today around 5pm, and I will report back, and also open the 2015 and compare/contrast.
This does evoke some memories of Wellington Estate Syrah in the fruit profile, and it has more of the herb and savory elements.
Very good, seems like a screaming deal at this price!]1
The rat that almost wasn’t!
A surprise package arrived right before I left on a trip for work yesterday, and upon opening it discovered not one, but two bottles of Keller Rotie, the 2014 and 2015. I tossed them in the car and left for my almost 5 hour drive to Pittsburgh. During the drive I received the email that the offering was going up today. Yikes!
Pulled in at 9pm and opened the 2014. Had to put it in the fridge for a while to get it down to cellar temp, and the wine also needed some air.
Getting some red fruit and some faint florals on the nose. Palate has red fruit, some pepper, good acidity, lush tannin structure, and a pleasant finish. Most definitely a well made wine. Closed, so tasted it over the next hour or so.
We drink a ton of Syrah, and enjoy CA Syrah, but sometimes miss the savory/briney element you can get in Washington Syrah (Reynvaan) or some French Syrah.
This wine started to develop some savory notes- my wife noticed some faint tomato, and we started to get some general sense of herbs showing up. I look forward to trying it again when I’m back from rehearsal today around 5pm, and I will report back, and also open the 2015 and compare/contrast.
This does evoke some memories of Wellington Estate Syrah in the fruit profile, and it has more of the herb and savory elements. Getting better and better with air.
Very good, seems like a screaming deal at this price!
Update:
2014 is drinking even better than yesterday after being corked in the fridge overnight. Still very polished and lush, more herbs, longer finish, still lots of life left.
Opened the 2015, and it’s a very similar wine, with the savory herbs more prominent right away. More focused, but still lush, a bit more earthy, fun to try another vintage of the same wine.
Paired both of these with sous vide pork Marsala tonight for dinner and they were great food wines. Really enjoyable with a meal.
Definitely not fruit bomb Syrahs, but instead elegant, restrained and beautifully polished examples of CA Syrah. I agree with RPM, ordered a case at this price.
@wnance Didn’t know that wine tasted good in Pittsburgh?? Though we know that wine does taste better in all parts of Ohio, but especially in CLEVELAND!! See the Steelers in the fall!!! Great rivalry is gonna be better this year!!
Nice double post from my IPad… I guess anything worth saying once is worth saying twice. No idea why that happened.
@klezman
I could do 25% or 50%, if we add one more to the split a case is feasible.
@rjquillin, @klezman
I would be up for a 3 way split.
@klezman @PLSemenza
Grabbed some.
Put either of you two on the list?
@klezman @rjquillin
fine with me
Yep’er: Any-way split is
@PLSemenza @rjquillin Was out in Europe - what was the final disposition on these?
@PLSemenza just got delivered yesterday.
I think it is just you and I, unless @klezman wants to claim some.
@PLSemenza @rjquillin
I sure as hell don’t need more wine. Even if I want this. Whatever
We just dragged 19 bottles back from Europe with us…so over the bottle number budget for the year, and it’s not even end June!
@klezman @PLSemenza @rjquillin I can’t say no. I’ll be down in SD this weekend through mid week if your available?
@PLSemenza @TechnoViking
Got the goods ready for the both of you to grab.
Well, between two labrats, and the rpm Autobuy, I couldn’t take it. I really do love Syrah; it’s one of my favorites. I’m only getting one of each. I selected the Summer Shipping. Currently, we’re venturing close to triple digits. I’m crossing my fingers.
Really pumped and in for a case.
Any pairing recommendations from folks who have tried the Keller Rotie from a previous offering? I assume this would go great with lamb but could it stand up to a ribeye?
@propvin I agree that it would be great with lamb. Maybe a ribeye- it’s not a tannic monster, but does have good structure. I guess you’ll have to try it and let us know! Fantastic with pork Marsala tonight.
Any of the Minnesota gang interested in a split? No South Dakota delivery, so I’d have to rely on someone else to place an order. I’d be in for a 3-pack.
I received the Golden ticket e-mail on my flight home to New Orleans yesterday but missed the Fed Ex guy, so apologies for the delayed review. Was surprised to find not one but two bottles in the box and upon closer inspection realized I had a 2013 Keller Estate and a 1-year younger sibling. Popped them both open and noticed a dark red cork on both but darker on the 2014.
The wife and I tried the 2013 first, which was dark ruby red and not very translucent in appearance, it a good amount of dark berry on the nose. Upon our first sips it was very smooth, well balanced, nice mouthfeel, and low acid. We felt it would be nice with fish or pasta but probably not steak. My wife’s retail guess on this was $60.
The 2014 was identical in color, but had more alcohol on the nose. Upon initial tasting this one immediately tasted more vibrant and brighter but not quite as balanced as the 2013 yet. Retail guess was $50.
We came back to each in about a half hour, and the 2014 opened up and mellowed a bit. The vertical tasting had us dreaming past vineyard travels. However, with a terrible 2 year old in tow, we’ll have to settle for a glass on the couch after she’s down. In for a case!
Just thinking this morning that I had very little Syrah and needed to find some. The rats and @RPM made the order button practically click itself.
Ok…rattage, part two. I got home from work pretty late tonight so these notes may be a bit brief.
)
Paired with a repeat of last night’s dinner (ribs, grilled portobello sammich. No chocolate cake.
Both bottles were left at room temp on the counter overnight, uncorked (yes, Ron, I dragged myself out of bed and removed the Repour stoppers
. Thanks for the great suggestion). Original corks were replaced in the morning, until I got home around 8:30.
Palate: Both vintages have mellowed fruit notes. The dark/red fruits are still there, but definitely in the background. Both seem well balanced, nice round mouthfeel, medium finish. The earthy, herbal notes are more prominent, but the wines are still “bright”.
Hold on…I need to go pour some more…
Nose: OK. I LOVE the nose on both of these. They both have a lovely, floral, almost perfume-like quality, along with a healthy dose of earthy, woody, herbal notes. I can’t seem to pinpoint any specific herb.
That’s all I can come up with for tonight. I still have enough left to taste again tomorrow, but again, I suspect any notes will be late in the evening as my family is arriving in town tomorrow. No promises…
Hi fellow syrah lovers: I’ve been working the New Jersey market all.day. Hope I answered most questions: if I missed something let me know, and I get working on it! Thank you to all who’ve supported this offer. Truly, thank you. Always learn so much!
@anakellerw
There was an earlier question about tasting notes on the main page.
It seems both the '13 and '15 have identical notes;
The labs do differ.
Could you review them and let us know if the notes need a correction?
Oh yay! I
Syrah! Great rattage, amazing reviews on the webs, glad I made it online in time to grab this one! appalling-luminous-tuna
/giphy woven-spectacular-banana
I’m in. Let’s do this.
Unrelated to this offer, but a shout out to Casemates for their outstanding customer service. Very much appreciated and one of the things that makes Casemates as great as it is!
/giphy uninvited-itchy-top
Couldn’t resist.
@tbcarroll same
/giphy humbling-bushy-burrito
I normally don’t favor the California Syrahs because they tend to be too “fruity” as I prefer some of the WA state versions, such as Syncline which is a favorite winery of mine. However, the reviews on this, and the words “wet earth” convinced me. I like earth in my wine! That’s where it came from anyway (earth), might as well taste a bit like it.
/giphy mischievous-supreme-thumb
/giphy distinct-tarnished-broccoli
@sdilullo Love the giphy!! Think I’ll be there someday too!!
@Boatman72 Indeed, this one may never be topped.
Iowa case split?
Nice to see that the WTSO offer today for the 2013 @ $19.99 was after the casemates offer.
@jmdavidson1 Sarcasm?
Well, at least only the '15 had a lower CT price.
@jmdavidson1 @rjquillin (@thelecroy and) I couldn’t get enough local support for a case of this, with funds low. When I saw the WTSO offer, we jumped on it, so that’s 2 for each of us to try. So if/when the deal comes back here (probably '14/'15/'16 ?), I’ll be ready, armed with having tasted it.
Received my Keller today before noon (thank you Mr. FedX for stopping early) and it was slightly cool to the touch with regular shipping. Happy!
I wish I could say the same for the Flying Goat Petit Sirah that showed up 3 hours later.
@ttboy23 The Goat offered here was a Pinot Noir, no? Different source/shipper for the Pet?
@rjquillin Yes, I am corrected, thanks. So many wines, lol!
@rjquillin The PN was summer shipping (first time I sprung for that) and arrived warm. A different FedX truck. I just figured it was the extra 3+ hours riding around the countryside. There are many variables to that I’m sure. We are having our first big heat wave now, finally summer in MI.