2008 Qupé Syrah Bien Nacido Hillside Estate
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Tasting notes
Black cherries, plums, menthol, licorice and tobacco all burst from the glass in the 2008 Syrah Bien Nacido Hillside Estate. This is one of the most intense, powerful wines I have ever tasted from Qupe, but there is more than enough depth and pure texture in the fruit to fill out the broad shoulders nicely. A dark, brooding finish full of intrigue adds character and complexity. The 2008 is big, explosive and exuberant. And drop-dead gorgeous. If opened today, the 2008 needs quite a bit of air, but it is fabulous. Bob Lindquist gave the 2008 20 months in Francois Freres barrels, 50% new.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Glass-staining ruby. Vibrant aromas of cassis, cherry-cola, candied licorice and Asian spices. Juicy, supple and sweet, with intense cassis and red berry flavors complicated by notes of lavender, licorice, fresh herbs and black pepper. Very syrah in character. Bright acidity adds cut to the long, gently tannic, penetrating finish.
There is plenty of depth and persistence in the 2008 Syrah Bien Nacido Hillside Estate, but much less in the way of varietal or site specific character.
There is plenty of depth and persistence in the 2008 Syrah Bien Nacido Hillside Estate, but much less in the way of varietal or site-specific character. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. I have tasted the Qupe wines since the mid-1990s, when I sold them in one of Boston’s top restaurants. This year I found some of the entry-level wines terrific, especially considering their very fair prices. I can’t say I have the same level of enthusiasm for Qupe’s top bottlings. Tel. (805) 698-3889