Napa Valley Syrah

I’ve not had a Kongsgaard Syrah this young before, but when a friend wanted to try it, it didn’t take much convincing thanks to curiosity! Decanted an hour before trying, then consumed over the next two hours.

Well, not too surprisingly, this was even more monstrous and tannic than I expected. This drinks like a flamboyant/more modern style Cornas. Lots of charcoal, black-as-night fruit and dark roasted coffee. That being said, the aromatics are spectacular already with how floral it is, alongside sweet dark berry compote. Full-bodied and commanding on the palate, the finish sports black cherries and peppercorn before it hits a wall of tannins. Last glass three hours later showed fireworks as it was extremely delicious. Decant for 4-6hrs, or hold another 3-5yrs.

Gorgeous wine. One foot in the OW, one foot in the NW. Everything savory I love in Syrah with a deep core of fruit to add roundness and depth to this structured wine. Really beautiful showing for this.

Cocoa, mushroom, soil, olive wrapped in oaky qualities.

This is ridiculous.

This is still young but it's drinking quite nicely now. Rich, dense, solidly structured and some meat and earth underneath. Great stuff.

Velvety and succulent. Nose full of desert roses, persimmon, blackberry, and savory herbs. Velvety tannins carry gentle black pepper, blackberry compote, citrus oil, and kola nut. This reminds me of an Hermitage. This is a fine start to the weekend!

Weird cranberry thing in the mid-palette. Disjointed overall.

The epitome of Napa Valley Syrah.

Rich, meaty, rounded up front with a long silky finish. Opened beautifully, but could last for 20 more years. @kongsgaardwine #syrah

Red chile stew w vanilla bean icecream & beef jerky/bacon bits. Cool.