Piedrasassi Arroyo Grande Valley Rim Rock Vineyard Syrah 2021

The 2020 Syrah Rim Rock Vineyard was vinified using about one-third whole clusters. It has a medium ruby-purple color and broody aromas of blackcurrants, grilled meats, coffee beans, bitter chocolate and mint. The full-bodied palate offers concentrated, powerful fruit, loads of powdery tannins and sparks of juicy acidity that highlight floral perfume on the long finish.

Alluring aromatics of dried violet, lavender and leather include an undercurrent of bacon fat and iodine that gives way to a lively textured yet structured core of licorice-accented blackberry. Mineral notes swirl in on the finish, where there's a twinge of tannic grip but nice persistence as this circles back to the core flavors. Drink now through 2035. 452 cases made.

Spiced meat, blackberries, and oyster shell. Medium to full body. Earth, meat and dark fruit. Flavorful. Bright finish. Drink or hold.