Cline, Sonoma County (California) Syrah 2009

 Cline, best known for their Zinfandel, has made an impressive Syrah.  Less massive than their other Syrahs, Cline’s Sonoma County bottling weighs in at only 13% stated alcohol, which, I suspect, explains why I find it so alluring.  Using less ripe fruit allows a multiple of flavors–instead of just bombastic fruit–to come through. It delivers meaty, spicy and peppery notes intertwined with dark fruit flavors.  Supple tannins and lively balancing acidity round it out.  A good choice for a hearty lamb dish this fall.