2013 Halcon Syrah Alturas
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
Black cherry, black pepper, smoke, violets and mint are some of the notes that flesh out in the 2013 Syrah Estate Alturas. I especially like the interplay of cool-climate, savory aromatics and plush, inky fruit. This is another super appealing, mid-weight wine from Halcón. Syrah-lovers, take note.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Reminiscent of a Cornas from Thierry Allemand, Gordon's 2013 Syrah Alturas is the greatest wine yet from him (his 2009 is in the same ballpark). Coming from a cold, higher elevation vineyard and schist and shale soils, this blend of 100% Syrah has fabulous aromatics of blackberries, bacon fat, olive tapenade, violets and crushed rocks. These give way to a full-bodied Syrah that has beautiful concentration, integrated acidity and ripe tannin, all of which come together seamlessly on the palate. Showing lots of olive brine and salty minerality with air, it needs to be forgotten for 2-3 years, but will have 10-15 years of longevity.
The 100% Altruras Yorkville Highlands, which was tasted as a barrel sample, offers classic Syrah darker fruits, charcoal, graphite and hints of toast to go with a medium to full-bodied, focused and lively style on the palate. Slightly straightforward at the moment, I still like the overall depth and richness here, and it should come together nicely once in bottle.