Doug Powers

9.3

So, Barbara and Jim Richards (RIP) planted 5 acres back in 1991 (1990?) of Syrah on the northeast (downslope) corner of their Paloma vineyard on Spring Mountain in what visually looked like a “low spot” (partially shaded and also maybe an area that maybe occasionally got standing water back in the days when California got enough rain). The rest of the vineyard was of course Merlot and also some Cabernet Sauvignon used mostly for blending with their fantastic mountain Merlot. The vineyard is just east of Pride Mountain and across the road from what used to be (??) Schweiger Vineyards.

Anyway, Bob Foley, who was making the wines for Pride in those early days, was consulting for Barbara and Jim early on, but I have ZERO information as to what involvement he had with the Syrah, if I recall correctly, the first Syrah in 1995 was less than a barrel (12-15 cases), and was aged in a super OLD, neutral barrel. My Chicago friends, who knew the Richards, dragged me along to taste that fateful day. That 1995 Syrah, first wine they ever made from those young Syrah vines, was, frankly, eye-opening and FANTASTIC, as I told Jim Richards that day. After tasting the INCREDIBLE 1995 Syrah, which was so northern Rhône-like and so pure, I begged Jim to sell me a bottle or two, but he politely declined. Later that day, after tasting the rest of their great wines, as we were leaving, Jim GAVE me a 4-pack box of that 1995 Syrah, which he wouldn’t accept any $$$ for, and that 1995 Syrah still in my memory remains the GREATEST CA Syrah I’ve ever tasted!!

As you can probably tell, I adored Jim and Barbara Richards, amazing people and generous to a fault!! Amazing people!!! I don’t think I ever met their son, Sheldon, but from all accounts he is continuing the tradition of great Paloma wines, though that great Syrah vineyard was pulled out in the early 2000s — Sheldon, if you happen to see this post, I welcome any corrections if I got any details wrong!!

Oh, and this Syrah is pretty dang good as well!!! — a month ago

with Jim

Ben Hearns

9.0

killer petite sirah — 3 years ago

with Mason

Matt Kubiak

9.5

Perfect Kabinett. Acidic and fruity. Hits the side of the tongue. Love it — 5 years ago

Stuart Pollack

9.4

Beautiful high alcohol warm-climate Syrah. Fruity and jammy. Blueberry followed by a spicy finish. Great with Chinese beef and peppers. — 2 months ago

Maureen Goltz

9.8

Minerals. Not buttery — 7 months ago

Joseph Barsky

9.4

2016 Vintage. 14.9% ABV. 78% Syrah from Bassetti Vineyard, 22% Grenache from Caliza Vineyard. Plush with great fruit. — 2 years ago

Jeremy.Buss

9.1

Another winespies purchase that has proven to be a good purchase. Strong spice, blackberry and slight cherry, cinnamon, and more. Medium tannins. A 7 year old wine that likely could age another 5 - 10 years. — 3 years ago

Jay Kline

9.1

Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of two days and consistent throughout. The 2015 pours a deep garnet color with a near opaque core and some slight rim variation. Medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing and beginning to show, some secondary characteristics with a combination of tart, ripe and desiccated, black and red fruits: brambles, cassis, green bell pepper, pipe tobacco, leather, cocoa, organic earth and baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannins and medium acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The texture is that of a velvet glove. The finish is long and satisfying. Years ago, I cut my teeth on the wines of Ray and Nancy Coursen, especially their Elyse label while their Jacob Franklin label remained elusive to me. It’s clear there is similar DNA. This is a delicious, giving wine that is squarely in its drinking window. Drink now through 2030. — 6 months ago

Romain Fitoussi

9.0

On the nose, breeding stands out on notes of sweet tobacco, cedar. The mouth is fresh, supple, simple but charming. The aging is fine, and the sour red fruit is fresh and crunchy. Beautiful gourmet and affordable cuvée that does not lack finesse. To be tasted in two years.

Au nez, l’élevage ressort sur des notes de tabac doux, cèdre. La bouche est fraîche souple, simple mais charmante. L’élevage est fin, et le fruit rouge acidulé est frais et croquant. Belle cuvée gourmande et abordable qui ne manque pas de finesse. A regoûter dans deux ans. — 3 years ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.3

In its third century of crafting wines from Napa, Beringer is guided by the partnership of Winemaster Emeritus Ed Sbragia and Winemaker Laurie Hook.
Founded by Jacob Beringer, Vineyard was established in 1876. Dark Ruby with rich aromas ripe dark fruits with sweet spice and cedar notes. On the palate blackberry and cherry with licorice and cacao, well integrated and balanced acidity. Soft tannins, great mouthfeel, long finish, aged well. Nice!! — 5 years ago