The 2008 Syrah Horseshoe Ranch (also fermented with 100% stems and aged in 25% new French oak) comes from a parcel planted at a 1,600 foot elevation. While it was impressive from barrel last year, it now reveals more tannin as well as a muscular, masculine, austere, angular, brittle style. Hints of tea, earth and red currants are buried under the hard, sinewy, charmless tannins. This wine may become desiccated unless it fleshes out and reveals more depth of fruit. There is always a delicate balance between the concentration of fruit, ripeness and tannic structure. It is prudent to be skeptical when the tannins dominate a wine’s fruit characteristics so dramatically. It will be interesting to taste this offering in 3-4 years as it is certainly going to last given the acid and tannin profiles. However, I do not know whether it will ever develop much charm or generosity. - Robert M. Parker, Jr. (28-02-2011)
(100% whole clusters) Glass-staining purple. Slow-to-unfold aromas of blackberry and boysenberry, with notes of smoky minerals and violet emerging with air. More compressed than the Skyline today, offering zesty dark berry skin flavors and a sexy note of candied flowers. Becomes more peppery with air and finishes with a strong jolt of dusty minerals and excellent length.- Stephen Tanzer (05/2010)
Producer: Rhys Vineyards
Vintage: 2008
Varietal: Syrah
Country: USA
Region: CA - Central Coast, Santa Cruz Mtns
Sub-Region: Santa Cruz
Appellation: Santa Cruz Mountains
Sub-Appellation:
SKU: #
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