Parducci’s ’03 True Grit was a sensation. The ’04 is a worthy successor. Dry, tannic and amazingly rich, it floods the mouth with blackberry, cherry, currant, leather, coffee, carob and peppery spice flavors that go on and on in the finish. Like any great young Petite Sirah, it will age for many years.
— S.H.
(4/1/2008)
Parducci is proud of their history with Petite Sirah. The name “True Grit” seems to suggest their own stick-to-itiveness, and the wine’s gutsy personality. It shows massive cherry, blackberry, plum, cocoa, tobacco, balsamic, soy, coffee and Asian spice flavors, and will probably age forever. Good now with grilled meats.
— S.H.
(3/1/2007)
This is classic Parducci Petite Sirah, a near-perfect example of the variety. Dry and robust, yet smooth, it has complex flavors of wild blackberries, blueberries, molasses, dark chocolate, bacon and peppery spices. With beautiful balance, it’s a great value.
— S.H.
(11/1/2009)
This bottling from veteran producer Parducci is consistently one of the best Petite Sirahs in California. The 2006 perhaps lacks the concentration of ’03 and ’04, and is more like the elegant 2005. It shows a classic red -wine structure, with tannin-inspired flavors of blackberries, currants, tobacco, sandalwood and peppery spices.
— S.H.
(12/15/2009)
Simply delicious, in that fleshy, supple way Merlot was meant to be ripe, mellow and soft. A delightful aroma of berries and smoke leads to mingled flavors of blackberries, chocolate and clove. There’s a delicacy of body that complements the upfront flavors of this value wine. Best Buy. —S.H.
— S.H.
(5/1/2002)
Tastes young, dry, jammy, acidic, and tannicly immature now, far more aloof than the 2004. Unless you like this kind of assertive wine, it’s best to stash it away. But it should age well for many years, with its lush berry flavors and overall balance. Best after 2011 and for long after.
— S.H.
(12/1/2008)
Made lean, with sage, oregano and other dried herb aromas and flavors, with a streak of blackberry on the palate. Softly tannic, with a nice overlay of rich oak. This quaffable, balanced wine has moderate alcohol and is well-suited for the table. Best Buy. —S.H.
— S.H.
(5/1/2002)
Smells young and fresh, like blackberry jam, with sharp acids. Long and big on blackberry flavor . Tannins play rope-a-dope, seemingly easy, but then they kick in on the finish. Begs for long-term cellaring.
— S.H.
(12/31/2003)