The 2017 Syrah is made up of 93.6% Syrah and 6.4% Viognier, a slightly higher Viognier co-ferment this vintage. It was made with about 20% whole bunches and no new oak was used. It bursts from the glass with bold notes of wild blueberries, fresh black cherries and black raspberries with touches of tar, licorice, cracked pepper, violets and garrigue with a waft of bouquet garni. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a rock-solid backbone of firm, rounded tannins and racy freshness, finishing with tons of pepper, spice and black fruit layers. 1,039 cases produced.

Medium-dark ruby; attractive, blueberry and blackberry fruit aroma with hints of lavender, rosemary, white pepper, black olive, and sandalwood; full body; rich textured, herbal, meaty, dark berry fruit flavors with a note of dark chocolate; full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Drinkable now and over the next two to four years. Very hightly recommended. 

The 2017 Syrah is a powerful, hulking wine endowed with tremendous richness and pure power. Raspberry jam, mint, rose petal and lavender all run through the 2017. Readers will have to be patient, as the 2017 is a decidedly inward wine. Even so, the Syrah has turned out very nicely - that much is evident.

-- Antonio Galloni

This estate has always made terrific Syrah and their 2017, which comes all from the Sonoma side of the estate, reveals a medium ruby/purple color as well as classic blackberries (and hints of blueberry) fruits as well as peppery herbs, violets, and hints of lavender and game. The palate doesn’t lose a beat either and is medium to full-bodied, has a wonderful seamlessness, silky tannins, and a great finish. It’s a classic Sonoma Syrah that has loads of character. It’s already hard to resist yet it’s going to evolve easily for 10-12 years.