Paul Lato 2020 Syrah “Cinematique” Larner Vineyard, Santa Ynez 97 Points

This is in my book one of “THE” best Cinematique to date bar none! I firmly believe that this wine is equal to all of Paul’s great previous releases, if not better!

Robert Parker 97 Points: “Medium ruby-purple, the 2020 Syrah Cinématique Larner Vineyard features intense scents of blackberry jam, powdered sugar, mint, black olives and ringing violet tones. Full-bodied yet light on its feet, the palate is seamless and powdery, with slowly blossoming flavor layers and a long, elegant finish. It comes from 22-year-old vines farmed by Michael Larner and was matured for 19 months in 40% new French oak. 109 cases were made.”

Vinous 96 Points: “The 2020 Syrah Larner Vineyard Cinematique is so alluring. A touch of Viognier and a dollop of whole clusters bring out the striking aromatic presence to play off a host of dark blueberry, lavender, menthol, and spice. This is one of the most complex, riveting wines I have ever tasted from Paul Lato. Impressive”

Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points: “Moving to the two Syrah releases, the 2020 Syrah Cinematique Larner Vineyard comes from a site in Ballard Canyon and was 95% destemmed and brought up in 40% new French oak. It’s one ripe, sexy Syrah, with tons of ripe blackberries and black raspberry-like fruit as well as ground herbs, pepper, violets, and spicy aromas and flavors. These carry to a full-bodied red wth beautiful purity of fruit, a layered, ripe, opulent mouthfeel, some firmer underlying tannins, and a big finish. It needs plenty of air if drinking any time soon and is another magical, balanced, opulent wine from Lato to drink over the coming decade.

Paul Lato says: “This Blockbuster Syrah has a larger-than-life presence in the glass. Plums, blackberries, blueberries, ground pepper, and olive notes all flow to a powerful, full-bodied Syrah that has a luxurious, layered character. Fine and elegant tannins lead to a long, seamless finish, a true expression of the beautiful 2019 vintage. After you finish this bottle, you’ll be asking for an encore.”