2005 Failla Syrah Phoenix Ranch
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Tasting notes
(from a cool spot in a warm area, according to winemaker Ehren Jordan) Bright, deep ruby-red. Sappy black raspberry, smoked meat, black pepper and hints of chocolate and graphite on the complex nose. Dense and ripe but quite primary and backward today, with intriguing pepper and meaty nuances and a distinctly dry character. Already hints at the complexity to come but this rather Rhone-like wine will need at least a couple years of bottle aging.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
From the cool, rocky, higher elevation soils of southern Napa Valley, specifically Coombsville, the 2005 Syrah Phoenix Ranch possesses a tight structure as well as high acids, a dark ruby color, and sweet cherry and blackberry fruit, earth, and spice characteristics. Somewhat backward and reticent at present, it should be at its finest between 2007-2012. Previously recommended: 2004 Chardonnay Estate (92), 2004 Chardonnay Keefer Ranch (91), 2004 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard (92), 2004 Pinot Noir Keefer Ranch (90), 2004 Syrah Estate (93), 2004 Syrah Phoenix Ranch (91), 2004 Viognier (90). Tel. (707) 942-4699; Fax (707) 942-5142