Notes adapted from my postings on CellarTracker:
2006 Melville Estate Verna's Syrah, Santa Barbara, CA.
15.3% abv. Cork broke into two pieces but bottom piece came out cleanly. Ullage looked a little low. This may be past its prime. The wine is dark purple and opaque. The nose of the wine is centered on dark berries with a smoky essence. The smoke is noticeable on the palate also along with blueberries and mulberries. Partway into the first glass I noticed a cola/espresso note. Without looking at the label, I would have guessed the alcohol content at 14 or 14.5%, not over 15%. There is a lingering finish. Paired with broiled lamp chops and au gratin potatoes.
In the last few weeks I've had several wines that I found to be pleasant and quite good but not outstanding or exciting. This next wine fits in that category.
2005 Cellar de Capcanes Mas Donis Barrica Old Vines, Montsant Spain.
Labeled as 14% abv. 85% Grenache, 15% Syrah. An Eric Solomon European Cellars Selection. Aged in American and French oak barrels for 9 months. The wine has viscosity. It is dark in color and opaque. The nose is of red and black fruit backed by oak. On the palate I find slightly tart berries with soft tannins that stand up to beef dishes. It would also pair with other red meat dishes or perhaps Mexican cuisine such as fajitas, tacos, or enchiladas. Nice, but not particularly memorable.
P.S. I should be opening a North Carolina wine as I wait for the Carolina Panthers in the Super Bowl but I'm instead drinking an Italian white that I opened last night.