2003 Kathryn Kennedy Syrah Santa Cruz Mountains California. 14% alcohol. $12.00 a glass at Endless Vines. $32.00 a bottle.
I always forget how much I enjoy this wine, and it is always a real pleasure to find it on offer by the glass. Deep red color, deep hue, lovely fruit, spice and earthen notes, with hints of chocolate and coffee, medium mouth feel, smooth tannins, light acidity, excellent balance, long complex finish of berries, earth, coffee and spices. A great wine to while away a half hour watching some of the first round of the NIT. 4*+.
Winemaker Notes: When I asked our winemaker why he likes Syrah as a varietal, he answered by saying that he loves its intensity. He loves the unique profile it has, that it has aromas and flavors that are unique to Syrah. And he loves its versatility. Syrah’s ability to deliver deeply flavored yet elegant wines, make it a perfect match for a diverse array of cuisines. I wholeheartedly agree.
Our Santa Cruz Mountains Syrah is the type of wine I really enjoy. It is flavorful and complex, and very stylish. It doesn’t have to beat you over the head to get its point across. Instead, it impresses with its balance, its sophistication and approachability. This is a “Go To” wine, one that you can confidently recommend for a variety of customers and occasions. - Eric Fountain, sales director.