2010 Carlisle Syrah Bennett Valley

(includes the fruit that normally comprises Carlisle's Cardiac Hill syrah bottling, along with fruit from the Steiner vineyard; 35% new French oak): Inky ruby. An explosively perfumed bouquet evokes dark berry preserves, black tea, licorice and smoky Indian spices. Lush, palate-staining black and blue fruit flavors show noteworthy intensity and focus and pick up a floral pastille nuance with air. Finishes broad and sweet, leaving smoke and licorice notes behind.