Mike Officer started Carlisle and established a good reputation with his zinfandels. Until now, I hadn't tried his syrah, but Whoa Nellie! I have should have been paying closer attention.
2002 Carlisle Syrah Sonoma County - USA, California, Sonoma County
Wow, what a wine. The color is deep ruby like the ruby slippers in the Wizard of Oz, and the wine is fantastic, like it has come from Oz. It has a super rich nose of pepper, fruit and spice. The palate is mouth coating with a full body, great complexity and balance, and a finish that goes on for minutes. It is somewhat reminicent of an Aussie shiraz, but this wine obviously has more cold-climate characteristics. This is super stuff. I couldn't be happier with it. (94 pts.) (tasted 9/16/2005)
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