1996 Freemark Abbey Petite Sirah

[Bucko]

1996 Freemark Abbey Petite Sirah, Napa Valley - What a nice surprise! If I did not know what the wine was, I would swear that it was Mourvedre based on the nose. Inky, teeth-staining purple, with an earthy, funky nose. It is packed with very rich, complex fruit, blackberries predominating. Vanilla oak is present, but is held in the background where it belongs. The tannins are soft, but moderate, however they only support the wine, not overwhelm it -- it is delicious now, better in a 3-5 years. Highly recommended.

Bucko