2017 Horsepower "High Contrast" Syrah

2017 Horsepower Vineyards Syrah High Contrast Vineyard

96 Points

The nose is wonderfully high-toned with orange blossoms that connect with smoked meats, black olive tapenade and shades of boysenberry cordial that all mingle in the glass. The palate is fresh and vibrant with gobs of mouth-watering acidity and a seamless texture. Very pretty kirsch and Satsuma orange rind connect with roasted dates, wet gravel and seaweed on this complex palate. Finishing very long, this beautiful new wine will enjoy another eight to ten years ahead of it. —Owen Bargreen, owenbargreen.com

96 Points

Showing with a deep ruby core that fades to a purple edge, the 2017 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard explodes from the glass with pronounced smoky aromas that waft with delicate notes of dark chocolate-covered blackberries, then show hints of roasted coffee bean, notions of petrichor, baked earth and dried herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is elegantly powerful, showcasing a balanced chassis of youthful tannins that evolve with the complex nature of the wine. There is a velvety firmness to the mid-palate before moving onto an elongated finish that grows in complexity and amplitude as the expression resonates harmoniously, confirming yet another blockbuster Syrah from the ever-so-talented Christophe Baron. —Anthony Mueller, The Wine Advocate

95+ Points

…Backward notes of chocolaty black fruits, toasted spice, mulled plums, cured ham, and sweet mulch all developing with time in the glass. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with plenty of tannins… This is certainly for those who like a big dose of funk in their Syrah! –Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com

95 Points

Aromas of brambleberries and wet earth with some smoke and green cloves. Full body, round and succulent tannins and a juicy, earthy aftertaste. Savory. Delicious now or hold. —James Suckling, jamessuckling.com