Kimsey Syrah 2013

Defined by its darkness. Blackberries, black olives and black pepper. Inherent earthiness to the brooding and savory nose and the dusty, fine-grained tannins. Earth-driven, but by no means earth-bound. Seemingly endless fruit and floral notes jump out of the glass. Blend: 97% Syrah, 3% Viognier Kimsey's 2013 Syrah is utterly magnificent. A bevy of crushed rock, lavender, mint, violet and inky blue/purplish fruit blossom as this explosive, intense wine shows off its commanding personality. The 2013 is every bit as fabulous from bottle as it was from barrel, but the tannins are imposing and need time to soften a bit. Just bottled in March, the 2013 Syrah Ballard Canyon is another sensational red from this estate that doesn't put a foot wrong. Cofermented with 3% Viognier and aged mostly in neutral oak (30% new), it offers awesome notes of creme de cassis, black raspberries, jam-covered toast, licorice and a touch of roasted meat-like characteristics on the nose. Tarry aromas of elderberry, teriyaki beef, soy and purple flowers combine for an umami-driven nose on this bottling from a newer vineyard in the region, with winemaking by Matt Dees. The palate packs vibrantly tart plum juice and dried lavender flavors, held up by powerful acidity, impressive for young vines.