2005 Curtis Syrah, Vogelzang Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley.
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This Syrah is a very deep, inky garnet color with a magenta rim and a slight opacity. There is a distinct dusty, almost charred character to the nose, which is comprised of medium intensity briary blackberry, light intensity fleshy, slightly candied strawberry, notes of pepper and just a vague hint of mocha and anise. In the mouth, baked blackberry pie filling is embellished with notes of mocha, spice and sweet wood. The body is upper medium, with very big alcohol which is carried well by the overall extraction. The texture is lightly dusty with a fresh walnut- like astringency to the tannins. Acidity is quite good. A relative short finish of blackberries ends with a mix of dusty astringency and heat. |
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Production Detail: 100% Vogelzang Vineyard Syrah (Syrah Noir and Chapoutier/Estrella clones). Five day cold soak was followed by fermenting in small open-top fermenters. The wine was pressed off with a traditional, wooden basket press and aged for 17months in 50% new French oak. 16% Alcohol $22.00 Retail (from winery); 500 cases produced |
BOTTOM LINE: Good, with appealing characteristics. Recommended. |
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Big, rich and juicy, this brawny Syrah also has a slightly confected edge. This may suggests some increased VA but also gives some focus to the fruit. This wine needs some oxygen before consumption. Very reminiscent of Paso (east) Syrahs, this offering will do well with steak and BBQ - but will also accentuate racy, hot spices. Quite suitable as a stand-up, social wine. Expected to drink well for another five years with proper cellaring. |
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Learn about: |
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Color |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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Nose |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Palate |
3 points |
(5 points max) |
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Finish |
2 points |
(5 points max) |
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Tannins/Minerality |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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Acidity |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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Alcohol |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Aging potential |
2 points |
(5 points max) |
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Overall quality |
8 points |
(10 points max) |
Cumulative Score: 88 Points
Rating System & Scoring Criteria explained
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