2014 Pascual Toso Syrah Alta Reserva Barrancas Vineyards
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Tasting notes
(aged for 14 months in new American oak): Bright, full ruby. Musky, almost exotic scents of blackberry, spices and cocoa powder, plus a whiff of smoked meat. Plush, broad and sweet, with the slightly gamey, savory quality carrying through on the palate. Full in the mouth but this Syrah doesn't have the definition or distinction of the best Cabernets or Malbecs here. The firm, dusty tannins saturate the tongue. This very successful wine just lacks a bit of nuance and depth for 90 points.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Luis Gutiérrez, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
I don't find many Syrahs in Argentina these days, so I was glad to taste the 2014 Alta Syrah, which showed classical varietal notes of smoky bacon, tar and violets, even if the footprint from the élevage was a little too strong. But it resembled a modern and ripe northern Rhône, with good balance, fine tannins and a supple, tasty finish. It should improve as the toasty notes melt down in bottle.