2009 Denner Syrah Willow Creek District
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More rich and decadent, yet not as complex (at the moment anyway), the 2009 Denner Syrah, aged 18 months in 75% new French oak, delivers a textbook Paso Robles Syrah profile with awesome, slightly masculine aromas of black currant, smoke, chocolate, wet stone, and pepper that come soaring from the glass. Perfumed, ripe (yet not overripe at all), and powerful, with a full-bodied, structured mouth feel, beautiful purity, and a fresh, classically styled finish that highlights chalky tannin, this serious Syrah opens up over the evening and while drinking well now, deserves 2-3 years of bottle age. It should have upwards of 10-12+ years of longevity.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
(raised in 75% new oak): Opaque purple. A heady, intensely perfumed bouquet displays scents of boysenberry, cherry compote, violet and allspice. Juicy and precise, with very good depth and energy to its sweet dark fruit and floral pastille flavors. Seamless in texture and very bright on the back half. Finishes sweet and long, with lingering spiciness and a touch of licorice.