Syrah is a grape that ripens late in the growing season. Given this, growers have to be mindful. The grape is somewhat vulnerable to disease, particularly if late season rains arrive while the berries are still on the vine. Monterey County is blessed with a generally long growing season, moderate weather, and minimal rainfall, which are advantageous for producing Syrah. Thus, in general, the Syrahs from the region were quite consistent in quality. Their profiles tended to be fruit driven, with only minimal gamy notes, and softer, less peppery finishes. The favorites for both panel members as well as guests were De Tierra’s 2005 and Costview’s 2007.
 

Note: Reviews for individual bottles can be congregated by clicking on the red “Syrah Feature” tag.