Ramey, Petaluma Gap (Sonoma Coast, California) Syrah 2015

 My radar goes up when a Syrah sourced from what is generally thought of as a Pinot Noir vineyard crosses my desk, and it goes up again when winemaker David Ramey is involved.  All the best elements of Syrah are here, with meaty peppery character in front, and lively acidity carrying black and blue fruit right alongside the savory and spice character.  Add in mouth filling texture, supple grip and a long fully integrated finish and you’ve got a serious bottle on your hands.  I’d add this to your holiday table as a gift to what the grape can be when properly handled.