2018 Sleight of Hand Syrah Psychedelic Stoney Vine Vineyard
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All Syrah brought up with plenty of stems (60%) and aged in 25% new oak, the 2018 Syrah The Psychedelic is more transparent than the denser, rich 2019 yet offers a similar, gorgeously complex style in its red and blue fruits, iron, tapenade, and gamey aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, it's balanced and has a seamless texture, good overall concentration, and an already up-front, approachable style. Nevertheless, it has the tannins and balance to keep for 15 years. It's another head-turning wine from this estate. Another estate that has been around for a while yet seems to have found a new level of quality, Sleight of Hand is run by Trey Busch, Jerry Solomon, and Keith Johnson. These wines have always been rich and concentrated, yet over the past 4 to 5 years, they have pulled back slightly on the ripeness level, and the wines show more focus, elegance, and balance today, with still concentrated, age-worthy profiles. Their wines consistently rank with the crème de la crème of the state today.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate
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Made from 50% whole cluster, the 2018 Syrah The Psychedelic displays a dark ruby core with purple highlights on the rim. Aromas of savory blackberry, black pepper tones, cured meat and smoked cherries waft out of the glass with dried herbs, olives and warmed stones. Full-bodied, the palate is savory with bright, energetic acidity, vibrant and lifted black raspberry flavors, cracked pepper and crushed rock. The wine continues to unpack and unfold while it evolves over the long, winding, mineral-laced and spicy finish. It’s delicious.