2001 Syrah Seymour's Vineyard
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Drinking beautifully and showing no signs of fading, the blockbuster 2001 Alban Vineyards Syrah Seymour's Vineyard delivers the essence of smoked meat and charcuterie on the nose, with more black fruits, wild herb, and cocoa powder emerging with air. Thrillingly full-bodied and structured on the palate, with a mouth filling, voluptuous texture, superb balance, blockbuster length, this top-flight Syrah could come from nowhere else. While I think it’s drinking perfectly now, it should have no problem lasting for another decade or more.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(15. 8% alcohol) Saturated ruby to the rim. Aromas of blackberry, gunflint and black licorice. Thick, creamy and supersweet, with dark berry and mineral flavors complicated by peppery and saline nuances. Wears its high alcohol as gracefully as a top Chateauneuf du Pape. Finishes with sweet, lush tannins and outstanding length. (Unfortunately, my sample of the 2001 Pandora red wine was corked.)
The so-called pick of the best barrels (a difficult job at this winery), the 2001 Syrah Seymour’s Vineyard (named after John’s father) possesses additional concentration, aromatics, and length. A blue/purple color is followed by meaty flavors that coat the palate with blackberries, mocha, cocoa, earth, and creme de cassis. A tour de force in winemaking, it is a spectacular, rich, broad yet remarkably well-balanced wine to drink over the next 10-15 years. Awesome stuff! Most of these wines are sold via Alban’s mailing list, so if you love Rhone Ranger wines, it’s time to enjoy these remarkable offerings. Tel. (805) 546-0305; Fax (805) 546-9879