Lots of smoky leather and crushed black pepper in this wine, a clear sign the Syrah comes from a cool climate. Crisp acidity, too, giving the wine a bright mouthfeel. Might even have a drop of Viognier. There’s a citrusy lift to the blackberries and black currants. Should develop smoothly through 2013.
— S.H.
(2/1/2010)
An impressive Syrah, not just for its ripeness, but for the structure. Fine, firm tannins and acids, along with well-integrated oak, provide a classic framework to the ripe blackberries, leather and chocolate. Good now, with decanting, but really wants 2–4 years of aging.
— S.H.
(2/1/2010)
This is a wine that wants a little time in the cellar. It has very rich, ripe, concentrated blackberry and cherry flavors, accented with bacon, smoky oak and black pepper. But it’s tannic and the fruit is jammy. The parts simply haven’t knit together. Give it 2–3 years.
— S.H.
(2/1/2010)
A very nice Syrah that shows plenty of upscale character. While it’s not as complex as the winery’s vineyard-designated Syrahs, it shows a rich tannin structure and ripe blackberry, anise, chocolate and pepper flavors. Will drink well for the next couple years.
— S.H.
(2/1/2010)
This Mendocino region has some very old Syrah vines, and they have produced a dark, soft, lush Syrah, with an earthy component to the blackberry and mocha flavors. It’s pretty tannic, but that softness makes it instantly drinkable, and it’s not likely to improve with age.
— S.H.
(5/1/2006)
This is a powerfully fruity wine, packed with very ripe blackberry, black cherry, coffee and sweet leather flavors, in a fairly tannic package. It finishes a bit sweet, but shows good control throughout.
— S.H.
(5/1/2006)
From up in the Chalone highlands comes this very dry, acidic and rather earthy Chard. It has peach and apricot flavors, with a touch of green tea and tannins. Seems like it has the structure to age, although that has got to be considered a gamble.
— S.H.
(5/1/2006)
Fun, with fresh, grapy flavors of cherries and raspberries. With its crisp acidity and dry finish, it’s a balanced, young, easy-going blush.
— S.H.
(7/1/2007)