2009 Anthill Farms Syrah Campbell Ranch Vineyard

The 2009 Syrah Campbell Ranch is the most interesting of these 2009 Syrahs. It shows excellent delineation in its aromas and flavors. The wine’s approachable, mid-weight personality is highly appealing. Dark cherries, plums, spices and violets are layered into the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. This line-up from Anthill Farms is very impressive. The Pinots in particular are distinctive and well deserving of serious consideration. Tel. (707) 385-9396

This lightest of the trio, yet with outstanding focus and verve, the 2009 Anthill Farms Syrah Campbell Ranch Vineyard delivers toasted spice, dried meats, white and black pepper, and floral/underbrush like qualities that are support by primarily red fruit characteristics. Medium-bodied and supple on the palate, with a light, bright texture, racy acidity, and clean finish, this is certainly the leanest of the bunch, yet I like the structure and balance. Give bottles a year or two of bottle age, and then plan on drinking over the following 4-6 years, if not longer.

Glass-staining purple. High-pitched, spicy bouquet evokes red and dark berries, violet, allspice and black tea, with a touch of licorice. Vibrant and precise on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry, cherry-cola and floral pastille flavors underscored by zesty minerality. Closes on a smoky, spicy note and with very good clarity, leaving a note of candied licorice behind.