Description
Joyce Wine Co. began in Carmel Valley, California, when Russell Joyce’s father settled there in 1972 in search of a place where he could build a life, continue his work, and pursue his love of car racing. After starting a family, he turned to another of his passions—wine—and planted the family’s first 5 acres in 1986, laying the groundwork for what would become Joyce Winery. Russell Joyce grew up working those vines and eventually carried the family legacy forward, developing his own approach to winemaking centered on place, restraint, and authenticity.
After years of producing wine in a small Salinas Valley facility, Russell and his wife Charlotte searched for a permanent home for the winery and found the former Ventana Winery property in Soledad, in the Arroyo Seco AVA. In 2020, they made a handshake deal to take on the site and begin a new chapter for Joyce Wine Co. Since then, Russell has been rebuilding the winery, planting new vineyard blocks, and maintaining select old vines while working with neighboring family farms. At the heart of it all is a deep commitment to sustainability and wines that transparently reflect the terroir of Monterey County.
The Syrah fruit was harvested from several vineyards surrounding the winery in the Arroyo Seco AVA, a region known for having California’s longest growing season. Strong daily winds and cool fog from Monterey Bay extend ripening on the vine, allowing the grapes to develop greater flavor, complexity, and acidity. Rocky, well-drained alluvial soils, along with sand, granite, and shale loam, add freshness and minerality, while the area’s constant marine influence creates ideal conditions for cool-climate Syrah. Bright and juicy, with dark berries, black pepper, and a hint of violet, the 2024 Joyce Syrah is medium‑bodied, with soft tannins and a fresh, stony finish that works well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie.
