2011 Syrah Sonoma Coast

Ramey has always done a terrific job with Syrah and the late-released 2011 Syrah from the Sonoma Coast was co-fermented with 5% Viognier. Notes of bacon fat, tapenade and cassis are present in this rich, evolved, fleshy Syrah that is reminiscent of an outstanding Crozes-Hermitage from the Northern Rhône Valley. Enjoy it over the next 5-7 years.

(includes 7% co-fermented viognier; aged in 35% new oak): Bright purple. Dark berries, peppery spices and woodsmoke on the highly perfumed nose and in the mouth. Shows very good clarity and energy, with tangy acidity adding lift and cut. Elegant and gently tannic syrah, with zesty finishing cut and lingering smokiness. There's pinot-like finesse here.

The 2011 Syrah is a bit more subtle and medium in body than is the norm with the Ramey Syrahs, but then again, that is the vintage. Bright red fruit, rose petals, mint and licorice lift from the glass. Ramey's Syrah often features a more black-fruit profile, but the 2011 is aromatically lifted and more red-toned in personality. In 2011, Ramey did not make the Rodgers Creek Syrah, all the best fruit went into the straight Syrah bottling.