95 2009 Dehlinger Altamont Syrah (Russian River Valley) 1/7/18 ($45)
14.9% alc
Color: Deep ruby garnet. (3.0) Bouquet: Ripe black raspberry and black cherry complemented by incense, lavender, subtle coffee beans and white pepper. Delicious. (3.5) Body: Light heavyweight with outstanding fruit purity, excellent acidity and smooth tannins. Silky mouthfeel that coats very nicely. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, step for step. (3.5) Finish: Persistent richness and elegance shown here. Even better than the flavor in the mouth. (3.5)
Overall: A great Russian River Syrah that highlights the elegance and pretty, concentrated fruit that define the appellation. The ripe black raspberry/black cherry fruit, lavender, coffee beans and white pepper are all very distinctive and perfectly balanced. Shows consistent beauty from the nose through to the long, rich finish (my favorite part). At its best now and in the next couple of years, but should drink well even longer due to the wonderful balance. (17)
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