2008 DuMOL Syrah Jack Robert's Run

Opaque ruby. Highly fragrant scents of red berry preserves, violet and smoky Indian spices, plus a hint of white pepper. Lithe, precise black raspberry and cherry-cola flavors show a suave blend of sweetness and vivacity, with tangy acidity adding lift. Very energetic for a New World syrah, finishing on a nervy mineral note, with excellent floral persistence.

The 2008 Syrah Jack Robert’s Run exhibits more bacon fat, black olive and pepper in its soaring aromas of black currants and blackberries. It is reminiscent of a high-class Crozes-Hermitage from France’s Northern Rhone Valley. Both of these 2008 Syrahs should drink well for 7-10 years. (Not yet released) I would have to rank DuMol as one of my favorite half dozen producers of California Chardonnay as well as one of the top twenty in terms of Pinot Noir. Moreover, their Syrah program is also impressive. For unknown reasons, I did not get to taste any Viognier, which I have also loved. The 2008 Chardonnays are all performing as well if not better than they did from barrel last year. Winemaker Andy Smith told me that both he and proprietor Kerry Murphy believe 2009 is their best vintage yet for Pinot Noir, which is certainly saying something. The 2009s do look impressive, but at this early stage, I would not rate them higher than several other recent vintages. That, of course, is debatable given the fact that just about everything at this winery has been stellar since I first started tasting them. Tel. (925) 254-8922; Fax (925) 254-8942