2005 Cottonwood Canyon Estate Syrah, Santa Maria Valley.
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Inky violet colored with a dark magenta rim and good clarity. Medium intensity aromas of baked blackberries and blueberries are backed by light vanilla and horse blanket. With time, those last two grow less prominent while an incense note maintains a steady presence. Hints of vague floral aromas emerge after longer airing. In the mouth, high-toned blackberry and light herb flavors are fringed by currant and incense notes. Upper medium bodied, this wine is smooth and slightly dusty with tea-like tannins. The addition of very bright acidity makes for a juicy and supple mouthfeel. A long finish of blackberries, currant notes end with a touch of heat. |
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Production Detail: 100% Estrella clone Syrah from a three acre block at the Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard. Aged 23 months in active barrels. 14.8% Alcohol $32.00 Retail (from winery); 351 cases produced |
BOTTOM LINE: Good, with appealing characteristics. Recommended. |
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Opulent and fleshy, almost jammy, aromatics make this wine Shiraz-like but it is not a fat fruit bomb. Some interesting herb and oak notes ring reminiscent of garrigue. The acidity, which is in line with Norman Beko's style, may be a bit high for some. There is a greater aromatic than flavor complexity here, but the intensity of flavors and length of finish make for good tempo. Decanting and a year or two of further cellaring are advised. Drink for five years thereafter. |
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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 |
3 points |
(5 points max) |
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|
Tannins/Minerality |
5 points |
(5 points max) |
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|
Acidity |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Alcohol |
4 points |
(5 points max) |
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Aging potential |
3 points |
(5 points max) |
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Overall quality |
8 points |
(10 points max) |
Cumulative Score: 89 Points
Rating System & Scoring Criteria explained
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