The 2016 Syrah Sonoma-Hillsides has been nothing less than stunning on the three occasions I have tasted it so far. A wine of extraordinary purity and depth, the 2016 dazzles from the very first taste. The richness and power are simply breathtaking. Bacon fat, smoke, grilled herb and lavender are woven into a graceful, seamless core of inky blue/purplish fruit. Even with all of its intensity, the 2016 remains remarkably light on its feet. The Sonoma-Hillsides is a blend of fruit from Castelli-Knight Ranch, Griffin's Lair and Walker Vine Hill, done with 100% whole clusters and aged in a combination of concrete and neutral oak, with no SO2. I am not sure how the 2016 will age, but I am also not sure it will matter, as most bottles will be long gone before that is an issue. Quite simply, the Sonoma-Hillsides is a total pleasure bomb and a modern-day benchmark for Syrah in California. Don't miss it! (Antonio Galloni, Vinous, April 2018) — 7 years ago
Grabbed another bottle! Wine bears the vineyard named to honor the Red-shouldered Hawks and other birds of prey that play a vital role in sustainable farming practices. Bright yellow with aromas of tropical fruits and sweet floral scents. Aged for 14 months, 75% in new French oak and 25% in stainless. On the palate melon, pineapple and peach flavors and hints of citrus, subtle yet complex and well balanced. Lingering finish, savory, ending with mineral tones and toasty oak. Outstanding! — 7 years ago
2014. Cool berries on the nose. Delicious and delightful cool climate syrah. Lush fruit but light on the palate. Super-fine tannins, smoky and roasty earthy notes, insistent acid, and a satisfying and lingering finish. Terrific balance and concentration. Will be even better in 3-5 years. 14.4% abv. 124 cases produced. — 9 years ago
Soft SB compared to NZ wines. Crisp & refreshing. Good value — 5 years ago
Nice bold taste - cherry taste - bought at hy vee 12.99 — 6 years ago
Big peppery, ripe plum and dark berries. A bit of tannins but very enjoyable. I visited the winery a few years ago and they told me how bears paid them frequent visits and ate tons (literally) of their grapes. Great view of Skaha lake. — 7 years ago
Enjoyed the oak! — 7 years ago
so good! Easy drinkijg. — 8 years ago
Crazy motley of aromas going on here. Cherries, blackberries, cedar, and gummi bears on the nose. On the palate, vanilla, black currant, cloves, dark fruits, red fruits, I could go on and on. Smooth, spicy finish. Straight Bordeaux here. It's nice to drink wine made by people who know what the heck they're doing. — 9 years ago
Amazing pinot! — 9 years ago
Interesting nose of cherry and hint of mint and spices, the palate bears a generous fruit, traditional in character, but does not lack personality or potential. A super Chianti! — 7 years ago
Smokehouse berry nose with piney undertones. Big holiday berry mouth upfront with a soft long finish. Pleasing way to begin a winter night. — 7 years ago
Easy afternoon winter wine. Love the hints of dark chocolate! — 8 years ago
Solid but very simple and straightforward. — 9 years ago
Carina Clark
Crisp CH, not overall Oakes. Stone fruit notes and citrus finish — 5 years ago