2002 Dehlinger Syrah Estate - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (1/10/2010)
I have several of of these, so figured time to check out it’s progress. Glad I did, looks like it’s hit the early stages of its drinking window. No change in color from release, still a deep and nearly opaque ruby; a gorgeous nose, with crushed dark berries, some roasted mushrooms, and a nice floral component, probably a touch of integrated oak underlying; the palate is saturated with rich, somewhat higher toned syrah fruit, showing some violets, hint of new leather and creosote, finishing very long and lively, with a good dose of acidity. A rich and vibrant wine, not shy, but not over the top or overripe. Delicious, but very youthful, with another decade ahead of it if earlier Dehlinger vintages are any indiciation.
…now, with a few more hours of air, this is becoming much more northern rhone-like. Acidity has popped out, and there is a beautiful pomegranate tartness that extends through the finish. A fabulous bottle with plenty of upside potential in years to come, bumping the score by a couple points. (94 pts.)
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