TN: 2016 Myriad "Halcon" Syrah. Wowser.

WINE TALK
1

Have never had this before. Tried it courtesy of Mike Grammer.

The last time I had a Syrah from Myriad was about 5 years ago and it was from Carneros. Might actually have been a Quivet. At any rate, got to try this today. If you’ve bought some of this, you will be very glad you did.

2016 Myriad “Halcon Vineyard” Syrah, Mendocino Highlands, $45
Have never had this before. Rather translucent ruby color. Medium-bodied. For a wine with this body, aromas roar from the glass. Violets, plum and a modest gamey, barbecue aroma in the nose. Primary aromas at this stage but wrapped within a savory, smooth mouthfeel. Tannins are moderate and this allows the fruit to really shine. Moderate structure. Feels like Viognier is in this, but it is 100% Syrah. Very Cote-Rotie like but with the body of Cornas. Only 13.5% alcohol. 50% whole cluster that does not add any herbal notes but probably contributes to structure. Reasonable amount of acid in this. A ridiculous steal at $45. Ready now and over the next 6-7 years. Might be insane with prime rib. Why wait?
94pts

2

Great note, but you are ruining my image of all you winemakers sitting around together in the evening getting ‘loaded up’ on each other’s wines! [cheers.gif]

3

Mike works some serious magic with that grape. His command over whole-cluster is pretty inspiring.

4

it’s one of the few Cali Syrahs I’ll drink.

5

Love the juxtaposition of Mikes rich style with this ultra cool/cold site.

6

Mike’s syrahs are fantastic, probably better than his cabs fro my palate.

7

As much as I love Mike’s Cabs (and Cabs in general), his way with Syrah is great, yes it’s wowzer. Between Quivet and Myriad, we are spoiled. There certainly is a style and continuity to his wines, but I think his Syrah’s strike a wonderful balance of California fruit, place, and winemaking skill. They drink well young, and can age. I was at a tasting in St. Helena in May, and was stunned with the quality of the Syrah’s, even with his higher end Napa Cabs on the table.

8

wonderful note Roy;
having been fortunate enough experience Mike’s Syrahs with some age on them, I had resigned myself to cram these in the back of the cellar so as not be temped to commit the inevitable infanticide again; however, your note has me on the verge of giving in to temptation

9

Perfectly stated!

I’ll always be more of a Cab guy, at least in terms of CA wine…but Mike SMITH’s Syrah?? It’s just mind-boggling, especially for the price of admission – redonk QPR, year-in & year-out. The aromatics are INSANE.