Aromas of crushed berry succulent wild berry violets and loads of white pepper character turn to a sweet ripeness folding together in a seamless presentation. The finish is long and lingering with hints of beef carpaccio mocha and espresso and it just keeps getting better. A magnificent wine that makes a huge statement about Syrah in Napa. Drink now through 2013. 313 cases made.

Syrah is Colgin’s newest baby. Due to a severe selection there are just over 300 cases of this cuvee from the estate vineyards. A Rhone-like Syrah made with what I suspect is Mark Aubert’s Pinot Noir sensitivity the dark ruby/purple-tinged 2003 Syrah possesses meaty herbal jus de viande notes in its big spicy earthy aromatics broad savory flavors and plenty of cassis and meaty characteristics. It’s a juicy complex Syrah that should age nicely for 7-8 years.