Great wines, like great dogs often come from nowhere. One day they simply show up on your doorstep. No collar, kinda scraggly and dirty, with a twinkle in the eye as if your it’s long lost pack. Before long, your life is richer and before long they are gone. Duarte Vineyard, Contra Costa Syrah has been one of my greatest mutts. A wonderful vineyard which fell into my lap 12 years ago. No pedigree, no clonel number, no blue ribbons to speak of. She always bore fruit which was opulent, rich and down right gorgeous. And one year, low and behold she was awarded best Syrah in the world by the West Coasts oldest wine Club, The Golden Gate Wine Society. Talk about Lassie Comin’ Home! Unfortunately after the 2004 Harvest this unique vineyard was pulled out of the ground to make room for…….houses. In the world of “rare, unattainable wines” the T-Vine Cellars 2004 Duarte Vineyard Syrah is the real McCoy. So Raise a glass of this extraordinary wine and give thanks to all of the great mutts!