92 pts. - www.TheRhoneReport.com, November 2010
91 pts. - Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/June 2010
91 pts. - California Grapevine, October-November 2010
90 pts. - Wine Spectator, June 2010
90 pts. - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine, July 2010
Every year around this time we start seeing articles about how this year is finally the year that Syrah is going to take off with the drinking public, and assume its rightful place alongside Cabernet and Pinot Noir in consumer’s hearts. And every year, while Syrah maintains its loyal band of devoted followers, it never seems to catch on more broadly. In a way, this is a shame as there are now producers making phenomenal Syrah up and down the California coast and in Washington State. On the other hand, this means that Syrah remains a real bargain in the fine wine world, with all but a handful of cult wines available for under $50, and many fabulous wines for even less. Today we were lucky enough to snare the last few cases of the 2007 Eric Kent “Kalen’s Big Boy Syrah”, from a producer recently named by the Connoisseur’s Guide Charlie Olken as one of the California Syrah producers making “great Syrahs.”
The Kalen’s Syrah is blended each year from Eric Kent’s finest barrels of Syrah, resulting in an expression of the best the vintage has to offer.The 2007 Eric Kent “Kalen’s Big Boy” Syrah is sourced from vineyards in Dry Creek and Bennett Valley, resulting in a wine that captures elements of both warmer and cooler climate Syrah. Dark purple in the glass, the nose is loaded with raspberry, blackberry, black licorice, cherry, black pepper and mocha aromas. The palate offers plum and blueberry flavors, along with spicy, smoky notes. Full bodied yet with plenty of acidity, lively fruit and a long, spicy finish, this one is sure to satisfy fans of full bodied red wines looking for a wine with the balance to pair gracefully with plenty of food options. This would be perfect with pork loin with a berry reduction, or with a pizza with plenty of basil. This wine sells out to the mailing list most years, so take advantage of this chance to get in on one of the few cases to make it to retail sales, at a price you won’t find anywhere else!
Drinking Window: Prime drinking: 2011 to 2013 Graceful ageability: 2015+
Vintage: 2007
Varietal: Syrah
Appellation: Sonoma County
pH: 3.62
TA: 6.4 g/L
Alcohol: 14.9%
Bottling Date: March 23, 2009
Retail Release: Spring 2010
Total Produced: 293 cases
All Wines
Violet black in color with aromas of rich fruity dark berries, honeycomb, vanilla, and hints of forest floor join together with bold flavors of black cherry, and spiced nut. Balanced oak, layered palette, leaving you with a enjoyable persistent finish.
Big & Jammy!
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.
Rich & Tropical...
Notes of tropical and ripe stone fruits, with aromas of fig, golden apple and hints of butterscotch, integrated with the richer aromas of light caramel, truffle and toasted vanilla from the oak aging. The palate and texture is rich, full-bodied and creamy, while maintaining a balanced vibrancy and finish.
PDF