2010 Foxen Syrah Dry Farmed Tinaquaic Vineyard

The 2010 Syrah Tinaquaic Vineyard is a touch more complete than the Williamson-Dore. Sweet, silky tannins support a core of dark red fruit, tobacco, smoke and licorice. Texturally, the Tinaquaic is quite pretty, but here, too, something is missing in the definition of the aromas and flavors. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. I always look forward to tasting the Foxen wines, as they are loaded with class and personality across the board. The Chardonnays and the Pinots are the highlights among this set of new releases, while the 2010 Syrahs can’t quite match the superb 2009s. The 2010 Pinots in particular are well worth the effort of tracking down. Like all of the Foxen reds, they see minimal racking and are bottled without fining or filtration. Tel. (805) 937-4251

A spectacular Syrah (8% Viognier), the 2010 Foxen Syrah Tinaquaic offers up gorgeously pure aromas of crème de cassis, blackberry, smoked game, lavender, and hints of pepper on the nose. Full-bodied and powerful on the palate, yet with an incredible, seamless, and elegant texture, this knockout, layered Syrah is perfectly balanced, has integrated acidity, and finely polished tannin that frame and lengthen the finish. It can be consumed now with a decant, yet will be even better in 2-3 years, and drink well for 15+ years.