Cline Cellars Syrah Sonoma Coast 2007

On the nose, floral notes, strawberries and red currant. On the palate, strawberries, red currant, cranberry, hints of pomegranate, tea and sassafras, and very subtle meatiness. There is a bit of an apple peel tart edge, and on the finish, a hint of pepper. Medium bodied with a moderate finish. Went well with a grilled tenderloin.

Unfolds with spicy food.

Deep color, medium plus body oak, alcohol, bacon leather and black pepper nose. Good acidity, modest tannins and medium finish that ends dry. Not super generous. Could benefit from more fruit and a cleaner more focused taste. Best with food. Good value $9.99

Home run for an inexpensive Syrah. Plummy, round, harmonious balance of fruit and acid. 13.5% alcohol claimed: not off the chart. Totally satisfying quaff and remarkable value. We have been buying by the case.

This is my go to everyday red wine. Inexpensive, yet very drinkable and enjoyable.

Black cherry, pepper, and hint of vanilla. The pepper is a bit overwhelming. The appearance and texture is light for a syrah. Paired pretty well with pork chops.

I was pleasantly surprised by this wine, since Cline is better known for its Zin. A good balance of the huskier flavors of caramel/oak and brighter flavors of black cherry and pepper. Fairly strong on tannins, but definitely lighter than most syrahs; it's more red-tinted than purple. We paired it with smoky pork chops, which ended up being perfect.