Winemaker Notes
The wine showcases a deep, inky purple red color. On the nose, there are distinct notes of vanilla, cigar, leather and prune. The tannins offer a velvety smoothness that enriches the luxurious mouthfeel. On the palate, there's a seamless interplay of sweet and savory characteristics. The balanced acidity enhances the overall structure, and the finish leaves a long lasting impression.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A classy, cool-climate wine from a single vineyard that's better known for chardonnay. It offers deep blackberry, blueberry and black pepper flavors on a rich, supple texture of rounded tannins and a full body. Whiffs of wood smoke, rosemary and sage add tempting complexity. Drink or hold.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.