2014 DeLille Cellars Syrah Grand Ciel
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Tasting notes
(this vineyard is adjacent to Ciel du Cheval; 35% new oak; 3.7 pH): Bright ruby-red. Very ripe aromas of blackberry, blueberry, licorice and menthol verge on porty. Fatter and sweeter than the Signature Syrah; less penetratingly fruity but this chocolatey-rich wine benefits from a captivating note of cardamom and harmonious acidity. The exotic spice character carries through the sweet, very long finish, which features serious but plush tannins. This clone (Entave clone 383) ripens a bit later but retains acidity well, notes Upchurch.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Sporting a deeper, more purple and opaque color than the Signature Syrah, the 2014 Syrah Grand Ciel is a single vineyard cuvee that's 100% Red Mountain Syrah, all from a single clone, aged in barrel. It offers impressive notes of black fruits, espresso roast, cured meats and tapenade. These flow to a full-bodied, nicely concentrated Syrah that's nicely balanced, has good mid-palate density, plenty of texture and a good, yet surprisingly short finish for this cuvee. It's enjoyable today, yet I'd hold bottles for a year or two and hope it develops more length.