2004 Hyde de Villaine Syrah

The Syrah is made in an elegant, French style. The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Syrah offers a pleasant perfume of rose petals, black cherries, cassis, new saddle leather, spice box, and a hint of pepper. Medium-bodied, elegant, restrained, and subtle with delicate tannin as well as an easy-going finish, it should drink well for 4-5 years. I also tasted the proprietary red wine in both the 2002 and 2001 vintages. A Merlot-dominated blend with a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon, it seems to err in trying to be too French-like when, in fact, the vineyard is in California. The first two vintages are pleasant, but surprisingly innocuous. These wines are brokered by Wilson-Daniels. Tel. (707) 963-9661; Fax (707) 963-8566