January 26, 2021 - Totally delicious and in a great spot. A little surprising in some ways too- was not expecting the nose to be quite this rich and ripe (13.1% ABV, cool-climate, etc...) but although it had a dark and fairly sweet scent, it wasn't "baked" or overdone at all. Want to sniff it all night- dark fruit compote, blueberry/blackberry, wrapped in new leather and candle wax, then lightly smoked. Oak spice got more obvious with time, vanilla bean and light cedar, powerful but not overpowering. Not the MOST expressive nor complex Syrah nose I've found at this price point, but reallllly nice.
Palate had some real beauty also, although it's a bit less interesting than the nose. Much brighter, and this is where the lower ABV shines- excellent medium-plus acidity, reddish fruits, bright cherry and even strawberry mingling with black cherry and redcurrant. Tannins are in a great spot, already super gentle without feeling too thin. The only drawback is that the acidity itself sometimes feels a little "tart". I love high acidity in wine, but this one wasn't working in /total/ harmony with the fruit and other components. Still, super beautiful overall, both powerful and elegant. Easily worth somewhere around the $60 I paid.
June 14, 2020 - Decent enough and sitting between styles. Cooler feel, some meat and plenty of fruit. Pepper (green vegetal and spice). Mid weight and some mild grip. Enjoyable enough
September 29, 2019 - A true Sonoma coast syrah. Light on the palate and an acid driven wine. Mostly red fruit. Better with food
June 21, 2019 - Elegant, beautifully balanced, delicious cool climate Syrah.
December 23, 2015 - Well balanced wine with medium plus acidity and medium tannins. Notes of pepper, anise, and black currant. The palate has nice dark fruits with spice. Medium length finish. A good cool climate Sonoma coast syrah.
September 21, 2015 - Braised chicken, creosote, tar, cranberry, elderberry and woven basket. Long and percolating with delightful acidity. A noir Syrah that is statuesque and riveting. Such a seductive, long, cashmere finish. Drink 2017 - 2025.