2013 Bedrock Syrah Griffin's Lair Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2013 Syrah Griffins Lair Vineyard, which I tasted from barrel, is hugely promising. Rose petals, mint, juniper berries, flowers and sweet dark cherries open up in the glass, but it is the wine's expressive, lifted aromatics that are front and center today. There is no shortage of personality in this highly individualistic Syrah. In 2013, the Griffin's Lair was done with 60% whole clusters, which add considerable dimensions of nuance.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2013 Syrah Griffin’s Lair, a vineyard made famous by Joe Donlan and Pax Mahle, is co-fermented with 12% Viognier, and about 60% whole clusters are used. That sounds a lot like the Guigal family’s Côte Rôties La Mouline (89% Syrah and 11% Viognier). This wine comes from the loamy soils in the Petaluma Gap, which is also known for its Mistral-like winds. Dense, ripe notes of blackcurrants, black raspberries and cherries are intermixed with lychee nut and apricot notes. With great intensity, full-bodied opulence, sweet tannin and a layered, lush, heady mouthfeel, it can be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years.