2013 DuMOL Syrah Russian River Valley

The three Syrahs that DuMOL makes go from a small production of the Jack Robert’s Run (250 cases) to just over 1,000 cases of the Russian River cuvée. The 2013 Syrah Russian River is fermented with about 30% whole clusters and displays notes of bacon fat, charcuterie, ground pepper, blackberry and cassis. A lovely, supple lushness and good purity make for a long, heady, rich Syrah to drink over the next 7-8 years.

A fabulous appellation-level wine, DuMol's 2013 Syrah is deep, dense and explosive, with the fruit pushed forward and plenty of supporting structure to back things up. Blue and black stone fruits, grilled herbs, lavender, smoke, menthol and graphite flesh out effortlessly. Drink this big, meaty Syrah over the coming years. The balance here is simply compelling.

A much more varietally expressive set of aromas and flavors emerges from the 2013 Syrah. Black pepper, sage, lavender, mint and violets lift from the glass as this gorgeous Syrah opens up in the glass. There is plenty of the typical Ramey richness through the mid-palate and finish in a Syrah that has so much to recommend. I can't wait to taste the 2013 once it has been bottled. The addition of 8% Viognier adds lift, precision and perfume. The Syrah is mostly press wine from Cole Creek and Rodgers Creek.