2019 Melville Santa Rita Hills Syrah

WSI95+ W&S95 Chad Melville’s estate-grown syrah leans on the Estrella River clone, a selection that’s late to bloom and late to ripen—it is typically harvested in November, the whole clusters submitted to a cold soak, native fermentation, and aging in neutral barrels. It’s low-intervention winemaking with a stunning result: The wildly exotic aromatics bring lavender, violets, plum, smoked tea, olive and, above all, pepper—like walking under a pepper tree on a warm afternoon as the fruit nears peak ripeness. The flavors are exotic, lush and herbal at once, delivered with a creamy midpalate and fine leafy tannins, elegant and long. It’s drinking beautifully now and would be a wonder to follow as it ages.
VIN94 the 2019 Syrah is intensely bold and savory. Black pepper, leather, lavender, spice and Juniper berry are laced into the huge bouquet. Powerful and driving, the 2019 is a cool climate Syrah of impact and depth. In this tasting it is positively stellar. A few years in bottle will only help.
Estate Notes: The 2019 Estate Syrah begins to fill the glass with its signature dark violet color, one can’t help but to get excited. Instantly upon pouring, the aromatics begin to overflow and escape the glass, giving you a sneak peek of what’s to come. Fresh herbs and lavender fill the glass then give way to grilled meat and fresh, roasted cracked pepper. On the palate, the adventure begins with roasted blackberries, in season black plums, and cherry juice. A near perfect balance of silky tannins, juiciness, and velvet-like texture together create a symphony of flavor.