Havens Syrah Hudson Vineyard 2002

97% Syrah, 3% Viognier

With the Hudson Vineyard "T" Block Syrah, the wine starts out its life in cellar very fat, full, and somewhat awkward. But as it ages in barrel it becomes more refined, elegant, and balanced at a higher level. The exotic high tones of lavender and orchid, the white pepper spice, and the long finish develop from what began as an ungainly child. This wine is a telling argument for Syrah in Carneros, and for the proposition that a Syrah of power and structure can still be fine and graceful.

"The outstanding 2002 Syrah Hudson T Block, a superb parcel of the well-known Hudson Vineyard, boasts a saturated ruby/purple color as well as a beautifully ripe nose of acacia flowers, creme de cassis, and vanilla. Dense but elegant and well-balanced with seamlessly integrated acidity, wood, and tannin, and a long, smooth finish, it will provide a lot of pleasure over the next 5-8 years."
92 Points
Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
August 2004