Wild and fascinating aromas of road tar, anise, charred oak and grilled rosemary give way to chunky, chewy beef jus, roast venison and black cherries on the palate. Firm tannins are well integrated with the bold fruity, savory, gamy flavors. Decant and drink now—or better, wait until 2027–2037. — Jim Gordon

Fairly precise Syrah aromas focused on concentrated blackberries with notes of spice and judiciously applied creamy oak may seem a bit quiet at first nosing, but, with air, the intensity grows and presages the exacting, if youthfully tannin-bound, flavors that follow. Full on the palate and firm at this writing, a bit fleshy in feel underneath and tightened by late astringency, this solid, well-structured effort asks for some four to seven years of cellaring. 

The 2020 Syrah also includes small proportions of Grenache (6%) and Viognier (2%), but it's unmistakably Syrah on the nose, boasting distinctive notes of fresh asphalt and black olives, plus fruitier notions of blueberries and maybe even some hints of violets and bay leaves. It's full-bodied, smooth and supple, with boysenberry shadings and hints of barrel char coming through on the surprisingly elegant finish.

What an intriguing Syrah, with an exceptionally long finish marked by a deep intensity of ruby red fruit. It is medium-bodied with a richness in oak spices and blackberry fruit that finds a perfect balance on the palate. Cracked black pepper adds distinct Syrah intrigue, and dark chocolate-covered orange peel brings complexity. A deep mid-palate meatiness emerges, kicking the Syrah notes into high gear with vanilla and candied violets nuances. It takes time for those notes to express themselves, so patient swirling is advised.

Tasted by: Jonathan Cristaldi

(at Novato, California, 19 Jul 2023)