Syrah is a core strength of Darby, and as with previous vintages, this is dense and aromatic, leading from floral scents into a dark, almost broodingly deep core of blackberries, cassis and pepper. Full-bodied and 14.4% alcohol, this captures the essential strengths of Washington Syrah, done as a fruit-driven, berry-laden style.
— P.G.
(12/31/2010)
Another success for this new winery, this white Rhône blend is lush and loaded with ripe and delicious melon, sweet pineapple, stone fruits. It has a gorgeous creamy texture, and a mouth-tickling sensation of richness that never turns thin, bitter or hot.
— P.G.
(11/1/2009)
Sharp, phenolic and edgy, with bright fruit and intensity, this southern Rhône blend brings in a lush mix of Meyer lemon, tangerine, orange peel, pink grapefruit, and even a little pineapple. With a bit more bottle age, the sharpness should smooth over.
— P.G.
(12/31/2010)
This Bordeaux blend is solidly in the Darby style, but bigger and fuller and rounder than the other wines, with lovely, plummy aromas that lead into mouth-filling blackberry, cassis and cherry fruit. The use of 75% new oak is not intrusive; it’s truly just an accent, and does not overtake the fruit.
— P.G.
(12/31/2010)
Bee pollen, honey mead and lemon polish mingle in the bouquet; turning smooth and supple in the mouth. This is a rich and buttery wine, with excellent acidity behind the ripe fruit. The flavors gather strength as the wine pours over the tongue and down the back of the throat, finishing with a lick of butterscotch.
— P.G.
(12/31/2010)
A dense, balanced Syrah that amply displays a complex mix of ripe fruits, hinting at raisins and spice, but not overloaded with either. The spice-cake impression continues on, adding layers of coffee and toast, then introducing moist earth and a bit of dried herb.
— P.G.
(8/1/2009)
This 100% Grenache is young and grapy, flavorful and forward. This has more muscle and depth than might be expected from such young vines. There is a strong streak of grapefruit/ pineapple citrus that elevates and adds some nervous energy to the finish.
— P.G.
(12/31/2010)
Aromatic and loaded with scents of beeswax, citrus oil and musky honey. This spiced-up, elegantly crafted effort holds luscious peach and pear fruit, with light sprinkles of ground coffee in the finish.
— P.G.
(11/1/2008)