First batch is in the cellar

[hotwine]

Bottled my Syrah yesterday and laid it to rest in the cellar.... planning to try a bottle around Christmas. A small sample yesterday showed good fruit flavor without overriding alcohol, even though it's at 14.5%. No cost - compensation for helping out in the shop.

[californiagirl]

Are you planning on bringing any to the retreat?

[hotwine]

That's almost 14 months away. Who knows?

[hotwine]

Decided to try one as a sipper this evening. A few months' bottle age has definitely been beneficial, with the fruit holding strong but the oak receding into background. Smells and tastes like a Syrah. Nice surprise. Suspect it will continue to improve for another six months, hold for a few more, then gradually fade off into the sunset. Won't use it for target practice after all.