The 2011 Syrah White Hawk Vineyard is beautiful. Incorporating 5% Viognier and aged 16 months in 100% new French oak, it offers classic Syrah notes of chocolaty dark fruits, smoke, crushed rock and ample background meatiness to go with a medium to full-bodied, focused, pure and layered style. It’s a classy, balanced Syrah that will dish out loads of pleasure over the coming 5-7 years.
I loved these latest releases from winemaker Russell From. His 2011s are excellent in the vintage, with slightly toned down, elegant profiles that stay focused and tight on the palate. His 2012s are even better, with hedonistic, textured profiles and fantastic purity of fruit. They’re all worth checking out.
Tel. (805) 714-9966; www.hermanstorywines.com