Thursday, September 16, 2010 - Appearance: rich opaque, purple ruby, youthful
Nose: dark fruit, blackcurrant and redcurrants, cheesecake, mineral, leather, spice and black pepper
Palate: velvet mouth feel, medium plus tannins, long finish, bitter but luscious black fruit, traits of plum and dried currants, good acidity, nutmeg and cinnamon spices. Super size primary qualities which hides a 14% abv. Good combination of ripe tannins, acidity, fruit and spice. Some wood spice and leather give it an interesting complexity.
Two hours later it had mellowed with both white and black pepper components more evident. I believe that this wine is only entering its drinking window and may have a few years to go before it is at its best.
This was my first Petite Sirah but it will not be my last. It breaks all the rules of wine correctness. Monster, supersize helpings yet lots of complexity and interest. It may be “Petite” on the vine but it is “Grand” in the bottle. I am getting more of this one.