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

[Innkeeper]

Have not been able to find it anywhere, and am anxious to do so. In the meantime, uncorked a 1997 Arciero, Estate Bottled, Paso Robles, Petite Sirah (under $10.00) tonight. It went wonderfully with grill-panned fillet steak with bacon rasher, Worchestershire, and olive oil; sour dough rolls; and salad with homemade blue cheese dressing and bacon bits. It was just like the ole days. It isn't normal that a red wine with slope neck shoulders has the gusto to send you off into never never land. Will get a case next time.

[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 04-09-2000).]