Biale 2017 Royal Punisher Petite Sirah , Napa Valley

The new wave of Petite Sirah winemaking going on these days is drawing attention and changing the way this grape is regarded.  Surging forward is the recognition by winemakers, insiders, wine judges and critics that Petite Sirah is a time-tested noble grape that is truly deserving the status as a classic California varietal.  Robert Biale has been producing this varietal for years, and I would say that this might be the best one he has ever produced and for me it deserves the title of “Petite Sirah of the Year”!

A little word play, re-arrange the letters of Royal Punishers to learn the names of Petite Sirah’s parents: Syrah and Peloursin (SYRAH + PELOURSIN =  ROYAL PUNISHERS)

The Wine:  This 2017 Royal Punishers Petite Sirah is a plush, pure, and tempting example of Napa Valley red wine at its highest level:  deep, deep blackish blue opaque color, redolent of blueberry, blackberry liqueur, chocolate, dust and a touch of vanilla, with faint aromatics of black tea. Full bodied, intense yet extremely elegant on the mid-palate bursting with bright well-polished fruit that is extremely harmonious.  The firm and velvety tannins make for a gentle giant of a Petite Sirah that will age gracefully for a decade – or possibly two. Definitely a wine of which to stock some extra bottles away for long term gratification.

Winemaker Notes: “The 2017 Royal Punishers has a deep, blackish blue color profile. Aromas of dusty currants, blueberry, quince, violets, figs, molasses, graphite and baked rye. The entry is weighty with a broad mid-palate structure which has layers of ripe, black fruit flavors. The oak profile is balanced and the tannins are mouthwatering and medium grained which hold the fruit profile and carry a long, lingering finish.”

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BIALE 2017 ZINFANDEL “BLACK CHICKEN” NAPA VALLEY