Ballard Canyon AVA is no longer a well-kept secret. As a matter of fact, my recent travels took me along the winding backcountry roads to Rusack Vineyards. The oak-studded rolling hills and dramatic backdrop was ideal for my quest for the perfect Ballard Canyon Syrah and a dose of much-needed serenity.
Unpretentious and inviting, Rusack Vineyards‘ tasting room was a welcome sight, as it is one of the few tasting rooms in the pristine Ballard Canyon.
In the mid-1990’s, Geof and Alison Rusack purchased the legendary 48 acre property, previously known as Ballard Canyon Winery.
Seventeen acres were planted primarily with Syrah. Alongside the Syrah are smaller blocks of Bordeaux varietals ~ Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Petit Sirah, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel are planted on the couples’ Santa Catalina Island vineyard, El Rancho Escondido.
