2003 IX Estate Syrah
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Tasting notes
Good medium red. Aromas of black fruits, violet, licorice and bacon fat complicated by pepper and herbs; one can sense the heat of the vintage. Juicy, tightly wound and rather powerful, with its salty, penetrating dark berry and licorice flavors showing good energy and a serious tannic edge but still evolving. (Winemaker Tauziet referred to the wine's "hot/cool aromas and flavors.") Production in 2003 jumped to 250 cases from 2002's 100 cases, but the estate nonetheless dropped a lot of crop in '03.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good dark red. Currant and plum aromas are currently overshadowed by truffle, mocha and game on the slightly syrupy nose. Less fleshy and fat in the mouth than the '04, offering less pliancy and complexity today. Shows a penetrating quality and finishes with serious dusty tannins. Boasts a solid acid/tannin structure but will this wine maintain its fruit with further time in bottle?
Aubert demonstrates a superb know-how with Syrah. These wines are macerated for 35-45 days, and given frequent pump-overs as well as punch-downs. They are aged completely in French oak. Colgin’s 2003 IX Syrah Estate (330 cases) has added considerable complexity and weight since I tasted it last year, becoming very Burgundian in its huge aromatics and opulent, full-bodied power. Aromas of road tar, ground pepper, espresso roast, blackberries, and an exotic floral character emerge from this beauty. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years. Tel. (707) 963-0999; Fax (707) 963-0996
Good deep medium ruby. Aromatic nose offers raspberry, violet, gunflint and pepper. Dense and ripe but dry, with a lovely floral quality permeating the palate. Less complex in the mouth today than on the nose, with firm-edged acidity currently keeping the youthful fruit under wraps. But finishes with fine tannins and impressive length.
About the producer
Colgin has been producing some of the finest Cabernet blends in Napa Valley since its first vintage in 1992. Within just 13 years, it was recognised as one of the top 50 wine estates in the world by Robert Parker.