2014 Stolpman Syrah Hilltops Ballard Canyon
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Stolpman's 2014 Syrah Hilltops is powerful but also intensely tannic, to the point where the fruit is nearly overwhelmed at this stage. It will be interesting to see if more nuance develops over time.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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Leading off the 2014s, the 2014 Syrah Hilltops is another solid wine from this estate. It was partially destemmed and spent 21 months in neutral 500-Liter barrels. Blackberries, violets, licorice and hints of scorched earth give way to a medium to full-bodied, fresh, juicy Syrah that has bright acidity and fine tannin. It's a plush, beautifully textured Syrah to drink over the coming 7-8 years. While the white l’Avion was slightly head scratcher, these are some of the best wines to date from Stolpman Vineyards.
Still in barrel, the 2014 Syrah Hilltops Estate comes from the top of Ballard Canyon where the soils turn from sand to more limestone. Fermented with 50% whole clusters and what will see 20 months in neutral oak, it has classy notes of blackberries, crushed violets, blueberries, incense and toasted notes. Drink this full-bodied, elegant and ultra-fine Syrah on release and over the following 7-8 years.