93+ 2012 Dehlinger Altamont Syrah (Russian River Valley) 12/21/18 ($45)
14.8% alc
Color: Very deep purple ruby. (3.5) Bouquet: Concentrated blackberries and black raspberries complemented by lavender, subtle coffee beans and white pepper. Slight bitter black licorice. (3.0) Body: Heavyweight with outstanding fruit purity, excellent acidity and smooth tannins. Tangy, viscous mouthfeel that coats with just slight astringency. (3.5) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but more forward and delicious. (3.5) Finish: Very long and tasty with bitter black licorice at the tail end in a good way. (3.0)
Overall: More ripe, concentrated and heavier than the 2011, but the delicious blackberry and black raspberry fruit never loses its character, supported by outstanding structure. Not yet as complex as the '11, but this should come with 3-5 more years bottle age. It's so well balanced, rich and smooth that it can be enjoyed now with or without food. (16.5)
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