Winemaker Notes
Entrancing with its ever-evolving layers of dark berry notes, cinnamon and black pepper, this perennial varietal expression of our site possesses significant balance of weight, tannin, and velvety texture from front to back. Upon each sip, new and exciting characteristics unveil the complexities of this noteworthy wine long after the glass is set down. It has undoubtedly earned its title as one of the longest-lasting and beautiful finishes of the vintage.
Blend: 88% Syrah, 12% Grenache
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2017 Aspire is a Syrah blend that includes 12% Grenache, all aged 22 months in 43% new French oak. With a distinct marine/iodine-like note as well as beautiful black and blue fruits interwoven with notes of ground pepper and spiced meat, it's full-bodied, has a deep, rich, sweet core of fruit, ripe yet present tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. Drink it any time over the coming 7-8 years.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
A blend of 88% Syrah and 12% Grenache aged 22 months in 43% new oak, the 2017 Aspire has a deep ruby-purple color and layered aromas of spiced black and red berries, bacon fat, garrigue, mint leaves and bitter chocolate. It's firm, grainy and youthfully cedary, bursting with spicy fruits and finishing long and layered. Give it another 2-3 years in bottle.
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Wine Spectator
A dark and simmering core is framed by compelling blackberry, fresh violet and smoked pepper flavors that finish with a bit of tannins. Syrah and Grenache. Best from 2022 through 2028.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
