For this flight, our tasting panel, as well as our invited guests, were split on favorite bottles. The quality was so consistent that unlike the previous flights, there were no unanimous decisions reached.  Zaca Mesa’s reserve Syrah, along with those from Sarah’s Vineyard, Burrell School, and Gatos Locos, all received votes, and there was much discussion once the bottles’ identities were revealed. The range of microclimates might explain the deadlock, with different drinkers favoring a particular terroir’s expression. There were similarities, however. In general, these Syrahs shared a gamy quality, with flavors of smoked meats, bacon, and ham often expressing themselves. Blackberry, cherry, and soft notes of pepper were frequently noted as well.
Note: Reviews for individual bottles can be congregated by clicking on the red “Syrah Feature” tag.