2021 Clos Solene Hommage A Nos Pairs Reserve

Coming from the Willow Creek District and a blend of 96% Syrah and 2% each Grenache and Viognier (co-fermented), the 2021 Hommage A Nos Pairs is a different beasty offering more Paso Robles red, blue, and black fruits as well as ample Syrah peppery, violet, and gamey nuances. It's full-bodied, has a concentrated, layered mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and flawless overall balance. I love its richness paired with elegance, and this smoking good Paso Robles Syrah is going to evolve for 15-20 years if well stored.

The 2021 Hommage à Nos Pairs Reserve is understated yet remarkably pretty, showing dark raspberry, crushed rocks and hints of lavender. This is a model of purity, with crisp black fruits and mineral tones swirling under an air of sage and spice. It tapers off staining and potent, much more integrated than the last time I tasted it, with crunchy tannins and an air of licorice that lingers on and on. Stunning. The 2021 is primarily Syrah with an addition of 2% Viognier and 2% Grenache, using 20% whole clusters in the fermentation.

The 2021 Hommage à nos Pairs Reserve is a blend of 96% Syrah, 2% Grenache and 2% Viognier. It opens with pleasant smoky reduction that gives way to hints of blackcurrants, iron and lavender. The full-bodied palate is youthfully coiled at this stage, its core of blue fruit streaked with graphite. It has chalky tannins, energetic acidity and a long finish. It's developing more slowly than some of the other 2021s from Clos Solène and will benefit from several years in bottle.