2010 Bouquet Garni Syrah

Blackberries, sage, rosemary, mint, licorice and white pepper are some of the many notes that emerge from the 2010 Syrah Bouquet Garni. Rich, dark, and sumptuous, the 2010 possesses fabulous depth and spiciness, not to mention considerable personality. The 2010 has developed beautifully since I first tasted it last year. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Luc Morlet must surely have one of the broadest portfolios in California between the wines he makes under his own labels and for his consulting clients. There are a lot of beautiful wines in this range, although I have to admit, I tend to prefer the wines Morlet makes in Napa Valley over those from Sonoma. I have a slight preference for the 2011 Chardonnays over the 2010s, as I find the more recent vintage a touch more refined. In addition to these wines, I also tasted all of the 2011 Pinots, but found them in an awkward, raw state that is not unusual for young wines from this cold and very late harvest. Tel. (707) 967-8690

(from the Judge Vineyard in Bennett Valley; Morlet destems but does not crush the fruit, and adds back a portion of the riper stems): Good full medium ruby. Very spicy aromas of dark berries, licorice, violet, lavender and bay leaf. Then tight, spicy and a bit youthfully dry, with dark raspberry and cherry flavors leading to dusty tannins. Showing its fruity side today but this is not a particularly opulent style. This fruit was harvested at the beginning of November.

The 2010 Syrah Bouquet Garni is intensely spiced and floral from start to finish. Dark cherries, plums, mint, wild flowers and spices are some of the many nuances that take shape in the glass as this vibrant wine opens up. Floral notes continue to develop, lending an air of delicateness to the finish notwithstanding the presence of firm underlying tannins. I am very curious to watch how this wine develops over the next few years.