2003 Syrah, Ladi's Vineyard, Sonoma County

Syrah has its origines in the center of France. The trick with Syrah is to capture the vine-ripened fruit character without jammy flavors. The wine should be dry but not harsh, earthy but not bitter or dirty tasting. These good qualities are abundant in this 2003 Syrah.

The color is a deep, brilliant garnet. Glycerin ribbons of pleasing color glide down the glass. The nose evokes images of a dark, berry-laden cake rather than a mixture of fruit. There’s chocolate, cedar and blackberry flavors with a hint of outdoors barbeque char wafting on a warm wind. The taste layers on notes of leather and dried roses. There is harmony and balance.

Alcohol 15.2, R.S. 0.1%; Barrel aged: 34 months 50% American, 50% French oak Bottled: 394 cases, Sept. 11, 2006