2013 Efeste Syrah Red Willow Vineyard Eleni

(winemaker Peter Devison decanted this and the Ceidleigh Syrah in advance of our tasting; aged in two-thirds neutral and one-third new puncheons; vinified with 30% stems): Bright medium ruby. High-pitched aromas of blueberry, graphite, spices, black olive and licorice. Sweeter and plusher than Ceidleigh but with firm supporting acidity and a solid spine of broad, dusty tannins. Slightly less harmonious on the back end than the Ceidleigh but this classically dry wine needs a few years for its rocky component to soften.