2009 Anthill Farms Syrah

The 2009 Syrah Sonoma Coast is a bold, juicy wine bursting with fruit. This isn’t the last word in complexity, but it is quite tasty. It should continue to drink nicely for the next 2-3 years. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. This line-up from Anthill Farms is very impressive. The Pinots in particular are distinctive and well deserving of serious consideration. Tel. (707) 385-9396

Beautifully fresh and lively on the nose, with deep blackberry and raspberry-like fruit that's mixed with copious amounts of cracked black pepper, aged meat, and crushed flowers, the 2009 Anthill Farms Syrah Sonoma Coast is medium-bodied on the palate and brilliantly textured and balanced, possessing polished tannin and good length. This pure, downright classy Syrah shows the freshness of the vintage, yet still packs solid fruit and depth through the middle. It's relatively soft and supple, so plan on consuming bottles over the coming 4-6 years.

Dark purple. Smoky, deeply pitched aromas of blackberry and cassis, with hints of beef jerky and licorice. Serious and a bit brooding, with slow-to-open dark berry and bitter cherry flavors and a velvety texture. Gains energy and spiciness with air and finishes with lively mineral snap and a lingering note of candied violet. For a richly flavored wine this shows a surprisingly light touch.