2007 Radio-Coteau Syrah Timbervine
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Tasting notes
Already displaying great complexity, the 2007 Syrah Timbervine is the most evolved of the 2007 Syrahs. It offers smoky bacon fat, black cherry, black currant, tar, and incense notes in its full-bodied, rich personality. Its complex aromatics and flavors as well as its velvety style make it hard to resist at present, but this 2007 should evolve for 8-10 years. An artisanal winery run with meticulous attention to detail by Eric Sussman, Radio-Coteau continues to follow a fair pricing strategy for its high quality Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Syrahs, and Zinfandels. As a postscript, Eric Sussman told me that his winery was certified biodynamic in 2008. All his fermentations are native (indigenous yeasts from the vineyard), he uses minimal SO2, minimal racking, extended lees contact, and bottles all his wines in house with no fining or filtration. These are all characteristics of the younger generation of conscientious wine producers. Tel. (707) 887-8335; Fax (801) 340-6041
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Inky ruby. Explosive, highly perfumed aromas of black raspberry, blueberry, smoky minerals and incense, with a strong undercurrent of black pepper. Impressively pure and spicy, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors, velvety texture and a slow-building floral pastille quality. Gains freshness on the finish, which strongly echoes the spice and mineral notes. This is one to put away, but there'd be no crime in drinking a bottle now.