Alban Vineyards

One of the first Rhône Rangers (following Randall Grahm), John Alban began in 1985 by planting grapes for other people. By 1989, he bought his own estate. The Rhône varietal pioneer planted varieties such as Syrah, Viognier and Roussanne. He has been quoted saying, 'I almost single-handedly doubled the world's acreage', when its acreage had been reduced in the northern Rhône Valley to a mere 20 hectares (50 acres). He produces several wines including Mourvèdre and Grenache, but he is most famous for his Syrah. Alongside, three vineyard designated wines - Lorraine, Reva and Seymour's - he also produces an entry-level Syrah called Patrina which was introduced in 2009. He has made 'perfect' wines (100 Robert Parker points) on several occasions and most of them now range from 95-99 points.