2009 Peay Syrah Les Titans Estate

The estate's 2009 Syrah Estate Les Titans, a late release, is a powerhouse. Partly the result of vintage and partly style, the 2009 explodes with generous, radiant red fruit. Ripe, open and silky, the 2009 is a wine of textural elegance above all else, while true varietal notes are more in the background. Though outstanding, I prefer the 2010 La Bruma for its greater varietal typicity.

The estate’s 2009 Syrah Les Titans, a late release, is a powerhouse. Partly the result of vintage and partly style, the 2009 explodes with generous, radiant red fruit. Ripe, open and silky, the 2009 is a wine of textural elegance above all else, while true varietal notes are more in the background. Though outstanding, I prefer the 2010 La Bruma for its greater varietal typicity. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021. Vintage 2010 wasn’t kind to Peay, as yields were down a full 50%. Then again, that is not unusual for extreme coastal sites that require heroic viticulture and relentless commitment to quality, exactly the values the Peay family embodies. Andy Peay told me 2010 required considerable sorting because of brutally cold weather. The late season heat spikes were less of an issue as most of the vines were in veraison at the time. Readers should note that the Peay Pinots aren’t vineyard designates, but rather are crafted to have specific signatures. The 2010s were made from fully de-stemmed fruit. Tel. (707) 894-8720

Opaque violet color. High-pitched aromas of black raspberry, cracked pepper, woodsmoke, black olive and violet. Textbook syrah, offering dense, lush dark berry and floral flavors and a seamless texture. Shows excellent clarity and intensity on the finish, leaving behind notes of dark berry skin, licorice and candied flowers. (JR)