Alban Patrina Alban Estate Syrah 2016

The 2016 Syrah Patrina, made of 100% Syrah, has a deep ruby-purple color. The nose opens slowly—and it's worth the wait—opening to very pure aromas of wild blackberries, crushed black cherries, mint leaves, brewed coffee, cracked pepper and violets, giving up more and more nuances with time in the glass. The palate is full-bodied and intense but equally fresh and lifted, finishing very long. This is still youthfully wound, and I expect it may get even better with a few years in bottle. Rating : 95+

The 2016 Patrina is a rock star and readers looking for an introduction into the Alban style should snatch it up. Blueberries, red plums, crushed flowers, and violets notes all give to a full-bodied, pure, beautifully balanced red that has silky tannins and a great finish. It’s a screaming value, and the good news is that there are 1,600 cases produced.

Precise and tightly focused, with a vibrant backbone of lively acidity and tannins, cloaked in boysenberry, stony mineral and smoked pepper flavors that build tension on the finish. Best from 2021 through 2030.