October 16, 2010 - Amazing to think an $18 wine has the character to survive 5 years in the bottle and come out tasting like this. Reminds me of a much higher priced Cotes du Rhone, with a fantastic mourved body that brings concentration and funk to the table without overwhelming the syrah. This is really a fantastically crafted wine at the price. The nose is alluring, blackberry stands out but from a background of earthiness. Red and black fruits fight each other to a standstill in your mouth and then come to an armistice on the finish. Really impressive effort, at 3x the price I'd still be happy.
July 15, 2010 - Graphite, leather, and smoke on the nose. Palate has black cherry and a mix of old world earth and new world fruit. Some tannins. Nice balance. Would buy it again.
September 26, 2009 - Surprisingly complex and smooth for the price. Wonderful.
May 3, 2008 - Pine, mixed berries and smoked pork on the nose. As it spent time in the glass it got a little skunky, maybe too much so at times. Smoky autumn flavors on the palate and fine tannins. Miles better than the '02.
January 23, 2008 - Big win e- berries, fruit, big mouth fill. enjoyed.
November 2, 2007 - GSM 14.5% Moderate red color. Dark berry fruit and slight green veg nose. A little wood or patchouli? Blend has surprisingly light tannins, nice mouthfeel. Long finish without astringency. Works with pepperoni pizza.
August 12, 2007 - Drank at the cabin with steaks from the grill. All seemed to enjoy this wine and I would buy it again.
April 6, 2007 - Zaca Mesa Tasting (Gillian's): Ohhh, this is good. Better complexity and balance than both the syrahs tried earlier. The nose is prettier with blueberries, black raspberries, and maybe even a touch of floral tones. The palate is definitely richer and more full throttle than I had anticipated from the nose. Black plum, dried herbs, and loads of toasty vanilla and oak. Very nice.
March 15, 2007 - Rich fruity nose. Nice balance and good finish.
July 4, 2006 - Exotic and aromatic, pepper, floral, cherry, currant and toast nose. rich palate with great replays and structure; long, flavourful finish.
4.5/5