South Coast Winery Syrah 2003

With grapes grown in Temecula and in the South Coast appellation, Owner/Vintner Jim Carter, Master Winemaker Jon McPherson, and Winemaker Javier Flores turn out close to 50,000 cases per year under three labels, Elevation, South Coast Winery, and Wild Horse Peak Mountain. Jon McPherson, whose father, 'Doc' McPherson was instrumental in the growth of the Texas wine industry, led Culbertson (now Thornton Winery) to the recognition as "America's Most Honored Sparkling Wine Producer." Winemaker Javier Flores first worked in Mexico's LaCetto Winery. This read more...is a ripe, full-throttle, warm-origin Syrah. Bright and well saturated ruby in color, the wine is fairly viscous. On the nose, notes of ripe berries, and Bordeaux-like notes of cassis, currant, and plum, complement the sweet, toasty oak. Alcohol jumps out of the glass as well as the oak char but both are well-integrated on the smooth, round, Cabernet Sauvignon-like palate. Tannins are supple and ripe, and the wine is brambly and juicy with soft red fruits on the long finish. This would be delicious with a standing rib roast or an egg and cheese stuffed flank steak Braciole.    (hide)

Rating: San Diego 2006 Silver - As reviewed by San Diego Int'l Wine Comp. on 04/01/06