A lovely cool-climate example of Syrah, one that bears repeating across the variety in California where it’s possible. Fresh blackberry, fall spice, bay leaf, tar and a dash of orange zest are propped up smartly with bracing acidity that keeps things together through an extended finish. Serve now with something with a bit of fat, or age up to ten years to soften it into elegance.
Balletto, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Syrah 2015
By Rich Cook