'02 Terre Rouge Sentiel Oak Syrah

[Innkeeper]

First wine this year. 2002 Terre Rouge, Sentinel Oak Vineyard/Pyramid Block, Syrah (Shenandoah Valley, CA). $35, but came with the Fall Sampler, so less. Picked at 25 degrees brix, 3.45 pH, and .70 TA. Alcohol level 14.5%.

A very dark color meets the eye. Black fruits on the nose and upfront. Dense, deep concentrated layered fruit and spice; along with concentrated raspberry brandy flavors, smoky wood tones, and fine tannins course through the palate. Meatiness also adds to the structure. The finish was a 4 lapper. Had to hand wrestle true love for the last drop.

Matched with lamb stuffed eggplant, polenta, and green beans. Great combo to come back to the wine world.