Carlisle's Petite Sirahs are treated like this powerful but under-appreciated varietal should be. From very old vines the 2007 Petite Sirah Palisade Vineyard is an amazing example of this varietal that should age for 30+ years. Blueberry blackberry camphor licorice incense and graphite notes are followed by a wine with massive concentration and density as well as tremendous purity and depth. Although surprisingly accessible (a characteristic of this vintage) it will unquestionably last for three decades.

This explosive wine delivers a core of concentrated rich blackberry huckleberry boysenberry dark chocolate and ripe red raspberry flavors with accents of spice cedar and tobacco. Despite the concentration this is supple and elegant with a long finish and a hint of violet aromatics. Drink now through 2015. 117 cases made. -MW