A row of barrels in the Relic cave.

2005 Alder Springs Vineyard Syrah

In 2005, the temperate Alder Springs was even cooler than usual. While the result was fewer ripened grapes, those harvested had a long full season to mature, locking in wonderful sweet flavor. Exotic and lush aromas of raspberry, blueberry, pepper, incense, mint, and mineral greet your nose. On the palate, the wine shows its cool-climate vintage with a fantastically fluid texture and great intensity, kicking off a vivid array of blueberry, toast, mineral and sassafras flavors well into the long finish. Our most voluminous Alder Springs Syrah to date.

Reviews
Has gorgeous fruit that’s ripe and fleshy, with plum, wild berry, blackberry and exotic spice notes all woven together in a seamless package, with a round, supple texture. Finishes with a long, persistent burst of fruit, excellent acidity and fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2014.
James Laube
/
Wine Spectator Insider
/
December 26, 2007
/
94
points