Novelty Hill Syrah 2005

Wine Enthusiast rating: 91

Novelty Hill Syrah 05 - Robert Parker Wine of thr Day, September 9, 2009
" The 2005 Syrah is dark ruby-colored with aromas of earth, tar, game, and blueberry. Made in a leaner style, on the palate it offers up spicy red and black fruit flavors leading to a medium-long, pure finish. Drink it over the next 5 years. Novelty Hill is owned by venture capitalist Tom Alberg. He also owns Stillwater Creek Vineyard located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills which was planted in 2000. Last year the winery moved into its impressive new building in Woodinville. In addition to sharing the space read more...with Januik Winery, Alberg also employs Mike Januik as winemaker for Novelty Hill."    (hide)

October 2009

Novelty Hill wines have performed well to date, and this deep, weighty, very well-focused effort keeps the winery's string of successes fully in tact. From its complex aromas of ripe berries, woodsy spice, and smoke, to its layered, like-minded flavors, it exhibits a sense of refinement uncommon for a wine of its size and never lets ripeness dictate terms. Its tannins, while not out of bounds, are enough to warn off immediate drinking, and we would opt for another four or five years in the cellar. -Connoisseurs' Guide

Connoisseurs' Guide rating: 91