DuMOL 2023 Eddie’s Patch Syrah – Russian River Valley 96 Points

Jeb Dunnuck 96 Points: “The dark purple  Syrah Eddie’s Patch comes from south-facing slopes along the Mayacamas on red soils and offers notes of blackberries, candied lavender, olive, and a light gamey, ripe feel. Meaty on the palate, it delivers ripe tannins that build a touch on the finish, and it has a more grounded feel, although it does keep freshness. It is going to show its best over the next 10-12 years. It needs a little time in the bottle to open, but it would be a killer with steak. Drink 2026-2037..”

Winemaker Notes: “It’s hard to recall a more delicious recent vintage of Eddie’s Patch, first produced in 2000. Perhaps the epic 2019 fits the mold? What’s clear is that this classic mountain wine has performed brilliantly in this vintage. It’s infused with wave upon wave of deep fruit richness offset by typical mountain savory-Syrah complexity. At heart, it’s a wine that’s perfectly reflective of our benevolent coastal Sonoma climate and upland volcanic soils— this singular style can’t be found anywhere else. Unusually for such a concentrated wine, it can be opened on release for its upfront fruit appeal, but I expect it will cellar beautifully for longer than any of us has the patience for. Intense inky aromas reminiscent of violet, white and black pepper, Nicoise olive, and perfectly ripe blackberries. The wine’s flavors continue this theme with a myriad of deep dark, ripe fruits that cascade and flow throughout the palate. The wine’s texture is generous and layered, underpinned by gravelly freshness with supple tannins and mineral acidity. Delicious and approachable on release, the wine will deepen in complexity over the next fifteen years.“