Susana Balbo Crios Syrah-Bonarda 2011

The 2007 Syrah (50%)-Bonarda (50%) which spent 9 months in French and American oak before bottling without fining or filtration (as is the case for all 3 of the red wines). Dark ruby-colored, it sports an aromatic array of cedar, cinnamon, violets, blueberry, and plum. Medium-bodied, spicy, layered, and well-balanced, this flavorful effort will drink well over the next 4 years.

Very juicy and enticing, with lushly layered plum sauce, black licorice, fig cake and boysenberry notes that glide over round tannins. Very tasty. Drink now.

Winemaker Susan Balbo has the distinction of being the recipient of Wine & Spirits Magazine value brand of the year in 2004 and 2007. This wine is a delightful blend of Syrah, which is a French Rhône grape, and Bonarda, which is an Italian grape. Bonarda is the second most widely planted grape variety in Argentina. The wine offers ripe, dark fruit with balance, structure, subtle tannins and a hint of spiciness. The name Crios means "offspring" and is a tribute to her children. Great to serve with char-broiled steaks or hamburgers.

Good ruby-red. Blackberry, black plum and licorice on the nose. Supple and vinous, but with only modest sweetness to the plum, leather and saline flavors. Finishes with dusty tannins. Not exactly rustic but a bit simple.

Bright and juicy, with lots of red currant, cherry and licorice flavors backed by spice and floral notes on the racy finish. Delicious. Drink now.

The 2006 Syrah-Bonarda contains 50% of each component. It was also aged for nine months in French and American oak and bottled without fining or filtration. Purple-colored, it delivers an alluring nose of baking spice, blueberry, plum, and black raspberry. On the palate it is medium-bodied with loads of spicy dark fruit, a forward personality, good balance, and a pure finish. It too may be enjoyed over the next 3-4 years.

The 2005 Syrah-Bonarda (50% of each) is purple-colored with an expressive nose of pepper, spice box, and blueberry. On the palate the wine is supple-textured and easy-drinking with plenty of vibrant, spicy, ripe dark fruits, soft tannins, and a fruit-filled finish. Drink this tasty wine over the next 3-4 years.