2013 K Vintners Cattle King Syrah
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Tasting notes
Bright, dark red with ruby tones. Very primary, dark aromas of black cherry, violet, licorice and spices. Juicy and youthfully unevolved, combining good thickness of fruit with an impression of freshness. This Syrah is totally different in style from Charles Smith's bottlings from the Rocks District--in fact, it's rather Pinot-like. Finishes with good energy and tannic grip, as well as the spine to support aging.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2013 Syrah Cattle King is a smokin', layered, sexy, voluptuous Syrah that does everything right. Coming from the River Rock Vineyard in Walla Walla and the Upland Vineyard in Snipes Mountain, not destemmed and brought up all in larger barrels, this beauty offers a sensational perfume of smoked meats, pepper, licorice, black olives and assorted ripe black fruits. Deep, layered and concentrated, yet always light on its feet and elegant, this fabulous Syrah has a terrific mid-palate, a core of sweet fruit and blockbuster length. It's a tour de force in vintage and certainly one of the top wines. It needs a decant if drinking anytime soon, but should be at its best from 2020 to 2038.