Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Spectator
Excellent structure, with firm tannins anchoring a ripe, intense, expressive core of wild berry, blackberry, boysenberry, floral and raspberry-scented fruit that gushes through on the finish, with a long, persistent aftertaste that keeps pumping out wonderful flavors. A great value at this price.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2002 Syrah Obsidian demonstrates what heights Knight’s Valley Syrah can achieve. One of the most elegant efforts in this portfolio, its dense purple color is accompanied by a striking bouquet of floral notes interwoven with blue as well as blackberries, licorice, and background wood. This medium-bodied, stylish Syrah possesses a seamless texture and a beautiful finish.
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.”
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.