November 4, 2021 - Donated
April 15, 2020 - 15.8% abv. Dark ruby, expressive aromatics. Ripe plum, iodine, black olive and a floral uplift contribute to a deliciously complex palate impression. Plus depth and length, no alcohol heat. No tiredness on the palate, no rush to consume - outstanding now. A very complete Syrah at its peak.
December 25, 2017 - Some of the early sweetness has faded, leaving smoked meats, olives, and lavender at the fore. Smells amazing, but modest complexity shows on the palate.
September 5, 2016 - Big brawny syrah, not a fruit bomb. Dark, chewy, classic styling. Moderate/full body and finish. Just starting to come into it's own. Should have decanted this for a couple hours but couldn't wait. Will wait a couple more years on the next one.
January 17, 2015 - A nice, lush Syrah with a touch of earthy tannins. Drinking well now...probably even better in 3-5 years.
August 2, 2014 - Amazing
March 23, 2012 - Santa Cruz Mountains Day 2 (Rhys, Big Basin, Plumed Horse): Tasted non blind in their tasting room. Big nose of flowers, dark berries, herbs and spice. More of the same on the palate with too many layers to fully grasp with a quick 1 oz tasting. Very nice finish that goes on for days. Firm tannins. Hold 2-4 years. No noticeable heat despite unbelievably high ABV.
January 1, 2012 - The fruit in here will blow you away, along with everything else! 'Complex' would be kind. Blue, red, black fruit, tons of new French oak influence, vanilla, cooking spices--the point of being splintery. A couple hours decanting definitely helped bring everything together. I would like to try this again in 5 and 10 years because it's a rather obnoxious rascal right now :-)
June 9, 2011 - A barrel selection of 2007 Rattlesnake, it's a little closed and monster-like at the moment, but with a few years of age I think it'll be exceptional. I just love the way Big Basin uses French oak in these wines.