Le Clos du Caillou Cotes du Rhone Vielles Vignes Cuvee Unique 2005
This is a solid wine, balanced in medium weight with ripe fruits and structure. The ripeness is such that there are liquer-like black fruits. The alcohol is showing a bit in this chewy wine. Sourced from Chateauneuf-du-Pape, this wine is a blend of 90% old vine Grenache, 8% Syrah and 2% Mourvedre, aged in mature oak, large and small. Mis en bouteille at the Domaine Vacheron-Pouizin in Courthezon. 14.5% $17.99 at Bottle Barn.
White Raylin Mendocino Syrah 2006
Very hard wine to locate.
Bridlewood Santa Ynez Estate Syrah 2004
This wine recently took at Gold at the SF Chronicle Wine Competition in January. It is truly an oak-bomb so if you like the woodshed, this wine’s for you. P&B in Santa Ynez. 14.4% $40 at the winery Bridlewood
M. Chapoutier Crozes-Hermitage Petite Ruche 2005
Black pepper galore in a structured package; the acidity adds a nice freshness. 100% Syrah. Mis a Tain. 13% $25.99 at Bottle Barn Chapoutier