A ripe, classically CdP profile, black cherry and plum wrapped in smoke and pepper, delivered on a full-bodied frame with a long, cohesive finish. The 60/40 Grenache-Syrah blend shows old-vine depth and the hallmark mineral imprint of galets roulés
The 2022 Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato brings together Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc in a full-bodied, expressive Super Tuscan blend. With rich dark fruit, spice, and herbal notes, it’s a wine that offers both complexity and approachability. A well-balanced, rewarding red that’s ready to drink now
The 2017 Le Lucere is a polished Brunello from San Filippo, showcasing an elegant side of Sangiovese. With high praise from critics and a cult-like following, this wine brings layered aromatics, refined tannins, and a long, savory finish. Though we came in slightly below the consensus, it’s undeniably well-crafted.
The 2019 Melville Estate Syrah is a striking example of cool-climate Syrah from California’s Sta. Rita Hills. With layers of black pepper, dark berries, and a touch of smoky intrigue, this wine balances power and finesse. It’s structured, aromatic, and built to age, making it a compelling choice for Syrah
A bold blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah from California’s Sta. Rita Hills, the 2019 Second Street Cuvée leans into ripe black fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. With pronounced aromatics, firm tannins, and elevated alcohol, this wine shows off the region’s warmer tendencies while retaining structure for near-term cellaring.
The 2020 Hidden Asset from Santa Barbara County is a full-bodied red blend that showcases black fruit, spice, and savory complexity. Aged in French oak for 16 months, it brings structure and depth without veering into excess. Approachable now, it’s built to evolve through 2035.
The 2020 Syrah Gamma from Ampelos Cellars delivers a structured, cool-climate take on Syrah, shaped by biodynamic farming and native fermentation. Ripe black fruit meets savory depth, supported by firm tannins and a long finish. It’s a grounded expression of Sta. Rita Hills has the structure to evolve through 2035.
Kermit Lynch comes through again. The 2021 Domaine de Durban Kermit Lynch Vaucluse Rouge offers an excellent opportunity to explore the vibrant wines of Southern Rhône. Crafted by the Leydier family at Domaine de Durban, this red blend exemplifies the region’s potential for producing expressive, approachable, and terroir-driven wines at
The 2021 Trader Joe’s Jean XXII Châteauneuf-du-Pape delivers a solid Rhône Valley experience at an almost suspiciously affordable price. With a classic Grenache-Syrah blend and plenty of dark fruit, spice, and structure, it offers a well-balanced and enjoyable sip—though with some lingering questions about its exact origins.
Louis Bernard’s 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape brings together Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre in a balanced, medium-plus bodied red that showcases dark fruit, spice, and a touch of rustic charm. With pronounced flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and oak, it’s approachable now but built to develop through 2030.
The 2017 Casta de Vinos Casta Tinta Syrah is a striking example of what Valle de Guadalupe can do with this powerhouse grape. Deep ruby in color with pronounced aromas of dark fruit, smoke, and spice, it’s a bold yet balanced wine that continues to evolve beautifully with age.
The 2021 Fess Parker Crockett is an exceptional expression of the Santa Ynez Valley’s potential for producing powerful, complex wines. This bold blend of Syrah (Clone 383) and Petite Sirah from the Rockpile region captures the unique terroir and artistry of the winemaker, Eli Parker.