One of the wines of the vintage, the 2018 Syrah In The Rocks is 90% Syrah and a whopping 10% Viognier, that was 70% destemmed and aged in 30% new puncheons. Medium to full-bodied, seamless, and incredibly well-balanced, it has a beautiful nose of red plums, blackberries, violets, spring flowers, and bacon fat. As with many of Matt’s Syrahs, it has a distinctly Old World style and it’s just a joy to drink. While it’s ready to go today, I see no reason it shouldn’t hold for 10-15 years.

Displaying a classic ruby core, the 2018 Syrah In The Rocks was made with the addition of 10% Viognier and rockets out of the glass with complex fruit and floral aromas. Elements of orange blossom, honeysuckle and damson flower entice the nose with elements of spiced cherry compote, black raspberry skin, a rocky mineral essence and subtle oak tones. Medium-bodied and with 13% alcohol, the Syrah is instantly impressive in the mouth with incredible complexity, a balanced structure, rich, elegant fruit flavors and a floral nuance. Concluding with a long-lingering and ever-evolving finish, the wine remains persistent across the aftertaste and begs me back for second, third and fourth sips. Made with 30% whole clusters, the wine rested for a year and a half in 30% new puncheons. Bravo! I want more. Only 9,100 bottles were filled.- Anthony Mueller