The 2002 Syrah (380 cases from four vineyards spread out through Dry Creek Valley and one in Knight’s Valley) is the only wine in this portfolio that was aged in 100% new oak. It was also bottled unfined and unfiltered after 20 months of aging. Sweet blackberry characteristics intermixed with creosote charcoal acacia flowers and barbecue spices are accompanied by a full-bodied unctuously-textured rich intense wine that should drink well for a decade.

Enticing aromas of crushed blackberry wild berry hazelnut and spice lead to a surprisingly supple Syrah that turns graceful returning to boysenberry and exotic pepper and spice and it keeps repeating those flavor themes with great intensity and persistence. Best from 2006 through 2012. 380 cases made. (JL)