2017 High Contrast Vineyard Syrah

Showing with a deep ruby core that fades to a purple edge, the 2017 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard explodes from the glass with pronounced smoky aromas that waft with delicate notes of dark chocolate-covered blackberries, then show hints of roasted coffee bean, notions of petrichor, baked earth and dried herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is elegantly powerful, showcasing a balanced chassis of youthful tannins that evolve with the complex nature of the wine. There is a velvety firmness to the mid-palate before moving onto an elongated finish that grows in complexity and amplitude as the expression resonates harmoniously, confirming yet another blockbuster Syrah from the ever-so-talented Christophe Baron. Only 386 cases made.

Good full red. Less open and expressive on the nose than the Sur Echalas Syrah, hinting at blackberry, pepper, brown spices and dark chocolate. Then juicier and more delineated than the Sur Echalas but still with plenty of texture and breadth; also darker in its fruit character and a bit less rich and sweet. Finishes with firm tannic spine and a touch of youthful bitterness. I wanted a bit more sweetness but this very young Syrah needs more time in bottle to harmonize. Soil-driven, salty, high-pH Syrah with backbone. (ST) 92+

The 2017 Syrah High Contrast Vineyard is more wound up and tight, with backward notes of chocolaty black fruits, toasted spice, mulled plums, cured ham, and sweet mulch all developing with time in the glass. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with plenty of tannins, this is one 2017 that’s going to reward bottle age. Do your best to hide bottles for 4-5 years if possible, and it should see its 20th birthday in fine form. This is certainly for those who like a big dose of funk in their Syrah!