One hundred percent whole cluster, the 2015 Syrah Royal City bulldozes with elegance and power that is rarely seen in top bottlings. The nose is generous with good depth and breadth of lush black fruit compote, cinnamon spice and a velvety roundness that continues with layers upon layers. Full-bodied on the palate, the wine has a seriousness that can not be denied, yet it still has a velvety richness with lifting tannins and acidity on the mid-palate. With longevity that goes on for days, this is an extraordinary wine that is silky and massive. - Anthony Mueller

A very fragrant nose with stony and earthy aromas, cast against espresso and blood plums with a spread of baking spices. The palate is a powerhouse with intense, all-encompassing, expansive presence. It heads right to the limit of ripeness and holds the line. Explosive, long and wild finish. A thriller! Drink this from 2025 for best results.

The 2015 Syrah Royal City is a savory beast, blending briny olive and white pepper with dusty florals and musky black currants. Like pure silk, this impresses with its energy and polished red and black fruits, seaming to flow effortlessly across the palate. The 2015 maintains terrific elegance and restraint despite the warm vintage, leaving crunchy tannins and licorice to linger on and on. This is in a beautiful place right now, yet with many years of maturity to look forward to. Of note, the 2015 was matured in 100% new French oak, which is dialed back in the following vintages. -- Eric Guido