01 Paal Syrah

Tastes like a Syrah from somewhere in Santa Barbara County, which is not a bad thing taste-wise. But I’m always puzzled when European countries plant grapes that are indigenous to other countries. That aside, it’s very good. Nose is complex, with animal, vegetable, and mineral qualities (plus some nice fruit). There is an intense iron quality, cured salami, ripe boysenberry, and a little tobacco leaf. In the mouth it’s dark and rich, but the tannins are well integrated and unobtrusive. Acidity is a little lower than most Northern Rhônes, but enough to maintain balance. Despite my predispositions, I like it.

This needs air. Paired it with stewed pintos and turkey tacos on day one. Showed plenty of dark fruit and power, but day two, the nose blossomed adding more classic smokey, meaty and spicy elements.

I agree with @Tom Casagrande’s detailed review from 2022 of this lovely 100% cement-fermented, old large foudre-aged Spanish Syrah from Navarra, dark color, pure aromatics, good acidity, lingering finish, pretty impressive Syrah!!

Jordan had this 5 years ago