This bottling by the original Rhône Ranger Randall Grahm, who employs a hefty 18% Viognier in this blend, begins with lovely black raspberry, white peppercorn and struck stone aromas on the nose. The palate is tight and impressively stony in both texture and flavors, as the berry, flower and well-integrated baking spice components sail into a lingering finish.
95 points, Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast (Sep 2024)
Grown at Rancho Real in Santa Maria Valley, the syrah grapes hang long enough on the vine in this cool-climate location to develop the distinctive peppery accents of rotundone, a spicy element coming from the grape skins. It’s light-bodied, well structured, moderately tannic and very fresh-tasting. Fermented with half whole clusters, and 18% viognier is blended in. Screw cap. Drink or hold.
95 points, Jim Gordon, James Suckling (May 2024)
From the Rancho Réal Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley, a 436-acre ranch with 211 acres of vines planted. Crafted by Randal Grahm, one of California's most thoughtful, thought-provoking winemakers. A blend of co-fermented 82% Syrah and 18% Viognier with 50% whole cluster fermentation, then ageing for 12 months in used barrique. Bottled, unfined, and unfiltered. Explosive aromas of candied violets, blackberry, plums and hints of toffee and black pepper. Broadening and expansive on the palate with a medium-bodied richness of black cherry, spiced plums, blue fruits and liquorice, and hinting at cola spices atop a bed of firm, taut tannins that resolve with gentle waves of dark berry fruit infused with wild herbs and cocoa.
95 points, Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter (Dec 2023)
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