90
points
Shannon Ridge 2003 Petite Sirah (Lake County)
-
$27
This is a wild, untamed wine. Pours dark and thick, with a young, shut-down aroma of wild blackberries. In the mouth, it explodes, rich in blackberry and cassis flavor packed into huge, astringent tannins. Clearly will live for a very long time. Best now after decanting; will age through 2015 if not longer.
— S.H.
(5/1/2006)
89
points
Shannon Ridge 2006 Syrah (Lake County)
-
$19
They might have called this Shiraz instead of Syrah, because it’s like a big, bold, lip-smacking Aussie wine. It just floods your mouth with jammy, juicy blackberry, blueberry, mulberry, plum, chocolate, caramel and spice flavors. The wine was barrel fermented, which adds a smoky, creamy quality.
— S.H.
(6/1/2008)
88
points
Shannon Ridge 2002 Petite Sirah (Lake County)
-
$27
This is a big wine, but it shows considerable finesse. Pours inky black, and explodes in mulberry, cassis, coffee and herb flavors that are very dry. The tannins are chewy, suggesting either aging through the decade, or something rib-sticking, like short ribs.
— S.H.
(6/1/2005)
88
points
Shannon Ridge 2005 Syrah (High Valley)
-
$19
Shows its aspirations to the northern Rhône in the 100% varietal that’s wrapped in dense young tannins now, but deep down below brims with finely ripe fruit. Black currants, licorice, mu shu pork plum sauce, sweet worn leather and Asian spice flavors mingle into a long, complex finish. This is a wine to watch.
— S.H.
(12/31/2006)
88
points
Shannon Ridge 2008 Morine Ranch Roussanne (High Valley)
-
$24
A stylish Roussanne, built along the lines of a nice, rich Chardonnay. Feels full and creamy in the mouth, with interesting, complex flavors of peaches, apricots, sweet Meyer lemon, honeysuckle and oak. Crisp acidity is notable in the tart, clean finish.
— S.H.
(6/1/2010)