2009 Carlisle Winery Syrah Pelkan Ranch Knights Valley

Inky purple. Potent aromas of cassis, cherry liqueur, blueberry, exotic spices, violet and graphite. Incredibly deep, powerfully structured wine with sappy dark fruit flavors laced with espresso, violet, cola, star anise and cracked pepper. For all its power this wine comes across as almost racy, with wonderful lift and energy from bright, juicy acidity. The deep, sappy blackcurrant and blueberry flavors refuse to let up on the long, spicy finish. No stems were used here and the wine was raised in 50% new French barriques. Review Date: May 2011

Distinctive for its fresh, loamy earth and dried berry flavors, with touches of tobacco leaf, roasted herb, sage and cedar, this takes a while to unfold but is deftly balanced and ends with a focused, persistent finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 186 cases made. ?JL Review Date: February 2012