Sinor LaVallee Syrah 2016
(San Luis Obispo County, California) - [WE 92] [AG 90]

About the Wine:
100% Syrah from Sinor-LaVallee's estate at Bassi Vineyard, located 1.2 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The vineyard is organically farmed with biodynamic input, although not certified. There are just over 4 acres of Syrah on the vineyard, planted in two blocks; one runs east-west while the other runs north-south. Aged in 60 gal used French oak barrels for approximately 11 months, then bottled without fining or filtration. The label contains Mike's thumbprint on the left, Cheri's on the right and the kids prints are on the back. 269 cases produced.

92 Points & "Editor's Choice" - Wine Enthusiast:
"This is an extreme expression of cool-climate Syrah perhaps more than the average consumer would enjoy. Aromas of rosemary, raw lamb chops, bloody beef, pepper dust and coffee grinds lead into an earthy, gamy palate of similar components." - Matt Kettmann (12/1/2019)

90 Points - Vinous:
"Vivid purple. Spice-tinged dark berry and cherry liqueur scents, along with hints of olive paste, pipe tobacco and smoked meat. Chewy and focused on the palate, offering bitter cherry, cassis and spicecake flavors underscored by a smoky mineral nuance. Shows good clarity and spicy cut on the finish, which is framed by dusty, building tannins." - Josh Raynolds (Jan 2019)

Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2016 Syrah Estate is a good value and has classic cool climate notes of peppery herbs, olives, and bacon fat, with terrific depth of fruit. It's fresh, elegant, and lively, and reminds me of a solid Saint Joseph. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years." - Jeb Dunnuck (11/29/2018)