The 2012 Melville Syrah Estate Verna’s from Santa Rita Hills, California, is a standout wine in the Syrah category. Produced by Melville, this wine is crafted entirely from Syrah grapes sourced from Melville’s Verna Vineyard. It is a red wine from the Central Coast region that has captured the attention of critics with its impressive quality and depth.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, through the words of reviewer Jeb Dunnuck, has given this wine an excellent score of 94, highlighting its exceptional value and quality. Dunnuck describes the wine as possessing a "vibrant purple color" and a "full-bodied, seamless and layered profile." The tasting notes reveal a complex array of flavors including "blackberry, cassis, tobacco leaf, beef blood, and hints of iron." These descriptors paint a picture of a robust and intricate wine that offers a rich tasting experience.
The wine is noted for its composition and production process, being 100% Syrah with 70% of the grapes destemmed. It is aged for 11 months in neutral oak, contributing to its smoothness and depth. According to the review, this wine is a "no-brainer purchase" and is expected to age well, suggesting it should drink nicely for 4-5 years, if not longer.
The 2012 Melville Syrah Estate Verna’s is praised as an "incredible effort" that surpasses others at its price point, making it an attractive option for Syrah enthusiasts and collectors alike. The review positions this wine as a must-try for those interested in exploring the rich offerings of the Santa Rita Hills appellation.