'01 Tobin James Rock-N-Roll Syrah

[Innkeeper]

2001 Tobin James, Paso Robles, Rock-N-Roll, Syrah ($18 at winery). Alcohol 14.9%. It keeps getting better and better, year after year. This is the best one they've cranked out. Winemakers notes are: "Berries and smoke, with a wild spicy finish." In the May '04 "Food & Wine" Richard Nalley called it one of his top ten current Paso Robles releases; saying, "Sappy, fruity, and smooth." Agree will all the above and also agree with Nally that you don't even notice the high alcohol because of all else that is going on. Decent level of acidity too, gives it balance for aging, which I doubt we'll do!

Matched it with smoked baby back ribs in Carolina Red Sauce. More than slightly fantastic!