December 17, 2018 - From a magnum. Plenty going on, though past it’s peak. Notes of sous bois, pepper and some meat juice. Past peak but not tired, if that makes sense.
May 30, 2017 - Hoops and McCabe got it right. While I found the tannins on the finish bitter a few years ago per my note, this wine has come around. Some jammy black fruit notes along with warm spices. Yes, it's still got a sledgehammer finish that keeps it out of the 90's but it's all integrated and the wine is not old or tired tasting. It needed time to show its potential. And it's a beautiful example of Cali Syrah. I'd say it's at peak now. I've been drawn to Zaca Mesa Syrahs forever because they're unapologetically big and that beats out the easy-drinking stuff any day for me.
March 31, 2014 - Velvet mouthfeel, great taste from first sip. No indication of harshness reported by some members. Nice value Syrah.
March 17, 2014 - I never like this wine as much as others. This one had good spice, cinnamon nose and fairly rich palate, but I find the overtones of old vegetables on nose and palate that overwhelms the strong points.
March 6, 2014 - Rich and complex. Pretty spicy but plenty of other things going on. Has a beautiful sweetness to it.
March 2, 2014 - The May 27, 2013 tasting note is absolutely on point. So hard to judge this, as the nose and initial impression are excellent, but the finish is marred by bitter tannins. As attractive as the build up is, the finish is off.
June 10, 2013 - spicey nose with plum and licorice flavors, more fruity as it opened up
May 27, 2013 - My experience with this bottle was like: yes, Yes, YES, ... oh, that's a shame. The nose was very nice with red fruit, kirsch, hint of licorice, and bacon fat. The initial attack was juicy, and the mouthfeel was plush. The major downside was the finish, which turned bitter. Air time softened the bitterness a tad, but then some heat crept in as it warmed (but not as much heat as the previous bottle). Tasted on a few occasions out of the Enomatic, with and without food, with consistent notes.
This gets close to being really good but just doesn't quite make it
December 14, 2012 - Very good. Dark and rich. Lots of plum flavors. Nice, long finish.
November 18, 2012 - This bottle is at peak right now. The last of three, wish I'd let the others cellar longer. Strong nose that doesn't draw you in, but with some time in the glass this wine developed into a spicy Syrah with notes of pepper and blackberries. A real winner that underscores how a few years in the cellar can make an above average bottle into something special.