Why is Syrah such a great value?  Syrah is one of the classic varietals of the world, and while legend has its origins in Persia, it was made famous in the Northern Rhone valley of France with the world-class wines Cote Rotie and Hermitage.  Many would argue that in the New World, Americans are a little behind the curve in the appreciation of Syrah. Because of this, Syrah is still a remarkable value…  Legendary Syrah producer Pax Mahle recognized the untapped potential for domestic Syrah nearly 20 years ago and produced his first vintage of Alder Springs Syrah in 2000.  He’s now producing 100 point Syrahs, and many would include him in the same conversation with Manfred Krankl at Sine Qua Non and John Alban of Alban Vineyards.  All three have proven abilities to produce domestic Syrah that will compete with the best wines in the world.  At $39.99/btl you have to try this… 

 

The 2016 Pax The Hermit Syrah combines fruit from Alder Springs, Castelli-Knight Ranch, Griffins Lair and Walker Vine Hill Vineyards, which three of those vineyards also makeup his Sonoma Hillside Syrah which recently earned a perfect 100 point score from Vinous.  Again, you have to try this… The 2016 is classic, cool climate California Syrah which stunning depth, length and balance.  With only 411 cases produced, don’t wait to secure yours.  

 

 

Winery Notes: “Iron, green peppercorn, black pepper, bittersweet chocolate, black cherry and sweet plums dominate the aromas of this classic expression of Syrah.  The flavors follow the complex aromas and highlight the fantastic balance of the  2016 vintage. Intense and begging for some time in your cellar, this classic  Syrah has very smooth tannins and  is incredibly dense and powerful for what is essentially a blend of the  barrels that are not used in our high-end wines. This is clearly a testament of the quality of the amazing array of vineyards that we pull  fruit from.”  411 cases made

 

LAVAU 2014 GIGONDAS RHONE VALLEY, FRANCE   Your Price: $29.99/btl  Click to Order   From Vinous,  “Youthful violet. Aromas of fresh black and blue fruits are complemented by suggestions of peppery spices and pungent flowers. Sweet and open-knit, offering jammy blueberry and cherry compote flavors that tighten up slowly in the glass. Finishes smoky and long, with harmonious tannins coming in late.”  90 Points

BALDACCI 2014 ALLWIN SYRAH CARNEROS, NAPA VALLEY Retails at:  $45/btl   Your Price:  Join Our Email List to Unlock Special Offers Click to Order   The 2014 Allwin Syrah was carved out of a single vineyard in Napa Valleys cool climate Carneros AVA, and after meticulous sorting, the wine was fermented whole berry, adding to the complex flavors and dimension.  I should add that Baldacci’s Vineyard Manager is Josh Clark, one of wine country’s most sought after viticulturists, whose list of clients include icons like Outpost, Hourglass, and Kinsella and to list a few…