2008 A Donkey and Goat Syrah Fenaughty (USA, California, Sierra Foothills, El Dorado County)
Opened to accompany braised beef roast when the 2003 Ridge Jimsomare Zin did not measure up. The syrah was extremely purple, and teh aromatics reflected that "purple-ness." Ripe blackberry, plum and a top floral note dominated for the first hour or so. I did not find much underlying Syrah-ness until much later when more of a meaty/bloody streak came through. The wine was a bit hot on the finish (14.4% alc if you're curious), which gives me pause for longer term cellaring. With the food it was quite enjoyable, though I expected something a little less bruising from this producer.