Christopher Tynan Wines
Judge Family Vineyard Syrah
Bennett Valley, Sonoma County, California, USA
The first bottle of Christopher Tynan Judge Family Vineyard Syrah that I ever had an opportunity to drink met an untimely demise when it fell through the bottom of my brother’s cardboard wine carrier and shattered on the driveway. What I recall from that rather unfortunate mishap was how wonderful it smelled as it slowly streamed down the cracks of the concrete. So, I was elated to open this bottle of the most recent vintage. Decanted for two hours. From the first pour, the bouquet did not disappoint. Strong aromas of meat, lavender, dark berries, dates, figs, anise...it was a feast for the olfactory system. On the palate it was tightly wound and unwilling to fully express itself. This is a powerfully tannic wine with the stuffing and structure to last in the cellar for a long time. Make no mistake, this is delicious in its youth but an extended decant (full day) would be prudent at this stage to get the most out of it. Otherwise, let these sleep.
The first bottle of Christopher Tynan Judge Family Vineyard Syrah that I ever had an opportunity to drink met an untimely demise when it fell through the bottom of my brother’s cardboard wine carrier and shattered on the driveway. What I recall from that rather unfortunate mishap was how wonderful it smelled as it slowly streamed down the cracks of the concrete. So, I was elated to open this bottle of the most recent vintage. Decanted for two hours. From the first pour, the bouquet did not disappoint. Strong aromas of meat, lavender, dark berries, dates, figs, anise...it was a feast for the olfactory system. On the palate it was tightly wound and unwilling to fully express itself. This is a powerfully tannic wine with the stuffing and structure to last in the cellar for a long time. Make no mistake, this is delicious in its youth but an extended decant (full day) would be prudent at this stage to get the most out of it. Otherwise, let these sleep.
Jan 28th, 2019