IMAGERY Petite Sirah - Paso Robles, 2002

[robr]

A bottle given to me on Father's Day -- not yet opened. Anyone have any knowledge of this one?

Is Petite Sirah the same as Syrah?

[Thomas]

Petit sirah is not the same grape as syrah--in fact, it's not even petit sirah; its real name is duriff.

[This message has been edited by foodie (edited 07-23-2005).]

[Innkeeper]

Petite Sirah or P.S. as it is affectionally known is usually a huge wine. Some, usually less expensive ones such as Bogle are approachable on release. Many others, sometimes identifiable by price, need to be laid down for a looooooong time. I'm not familiar with this one. If you can establish the price on it, either from the source or online, it will give you a feel. If it cost upwards of $20 don't open it for quite awhile.

[robr]

I believe it was at least $25, maybe a bit more. How long should I lay it down?

Also, it's sitting in my house in FL at about 70 to 73 degrees. I can put it in a small fridge I have, which I keep at about 55.

[wineguruchgo]

all your wine should be in that fridge! Unless you are going to drink it immediately, even then it will feel hot in your mouth because heat accentuates the tannins and alcohol.

Can you tell us what vintage it is?

[robr]

Vintage 2002

The fridge is very small -- will only hold about six bottles.

[Innkeeper]

Would put it in the fridge for four years. If you want to open it earlier, decant it for several hours before drinking.

[robr]

I just went to the home of the person who gave me this. We opened a bottle of IMAGERY WOW red, 2002. It was good, but felt hot in my mouth, and had a bite. A lot of black currant in that one.

I will take your advice and lay this one in the little fridge for a few years. Thanks.