2010 Syrah, Stanly Ranch Estate, Carneros

2010 Syrah, Stanly Ranch Estate, Carneros

A beguiling, exotic bouquet laced with juniper berries, black cherries, rose petals and spices emerges from the 2010 Syrah. A bit lighter on the palate than its aromatics might suggest, the 2010 possesses lovely inner sweetness and perfume, not to mention excellent overall balance. There is a lot to look forward to here. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.

- Antonio Gallani

2010 Syrah, Stanly Ranch Estate, Carneros

This particular vineyard is more often mentioned as the source of many first-rate Pinots, but it is clearly capable of producing serious Syrahs as well. This one is long on intense varietal spice and is fit with a full measure of well-extracted fruit and plenty of distinctive, ever-so-slightly bacony oak. While fairly gutsy and quite full in body, it is not at all tough and shows a bit of polish that bodes well for the future. It may not need ten years to get where it is going, but we recommend that it be set aside for at least four or five.