Wind Gap Russian River Syrah, 2008

I rarely buy California Syrah, opting insrtead for Northern Rhone Syrah or Australian Shiraz. This very good Russian River Syrah gives me reason to change that policy.

Dark, deep Syrah color. Still a young wine in appearance, aroma and flavor. Beautiful, expansive bouquet. Black fruits, herbs and spice. Firm on the mid-palate--maybe a bit too firm for my taste--but tannins are fine enough to allow a good range of flavors on the finish.

Not really Rhone or Australian in style but a third approach that works very well.