Kimsey Syrah 2012

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: 96% Syrah, 4% Viognier Moving to the Syrah, the 2012 Syrah Ballard Canyon has more than a passing resemblance to a young Cornas. Inky/purple in color, with fabulous blackberry, black raspberry, violets, crushed rocks and pepper, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, awesome purity and a layered, expansive texture that keeps you coming back to the glass. Rating: 94+ The 2012 Syrah emerges from parcels interplanted with a number of different clones. Nuanced and expressive, the Syrah captivates all the senses with its extraordinary interplay of intense fruit and supporting minerality. Violets, mint, orange peel and black pepper add attractive savory overtones to a core of expressive dark blue/purplish fruit. This is a distinctly fresh, savory Ballard Canyon Syrah.