From a region typically thought of as being too cool for the variety, this Syrah possesses that characteristic cracked-pepper scent along with strands of dried herbs that add immense appeal to the solid core of blackberry fruit. Long and tart on the finish, with tannins that are so soft, they glide across the palate.
— J.C.
(5/1/2004)
A single vineyard wine that’s dark and rich and high in alcohol, but manages to hang onto balance and harmony. It brims with blackcurranty, plummy fruit and a green, minty note that adds an herbal interest. The dryish aftertaste lasts for a long time.
— S.H.
(11/1/2002)
Quite bright on the palate, with firm tannins and pretty, zippy cherry, spice, tar, raspberry and herb flavors. The texture is a bit powdery but should calm down nicely with a little more bottle age.
— J.M.
(3/1/2004)
Rich, soft and complex, with intriguing flavors of black cherries, coffee, nutmeg and chocolate. It tastes like a pie with all those ingredients baked in. Yet it’s dry, with a velvety mouth feel. It’s also quite oaky in sweet wood sap.
— S.H.
(4/1/2005)
This is a Bordeaux blend from the Chiles Valley district. Right now it’s a bit rustic, with sweet, jammy blackberries and cherries and some stiff tannins. The oak sticks out. Should develop for a couple years.
— S.H.
(12/15/2009)
With zesty acidity and dry pineapple, lemon, lime and green grassy flavors, this is a nice white wine to drink for a cocktail with little appetizers ranging from puff pastries to egg rolls to smoked meats.
— S.H.
(3/1/2011)
This has intense acids and tannins that make it feel a bit rustic. But despite the structure, it has delicious, upfront flavors of blackberry, plum, currant, beef jerky, sweet oak and pepper. Drink now.
— S.H.
(4/1/2013)