Stolpman Estate Ballard Canyon Syrah 2018 Rated 94VM

VinoUS Media Review
Rated 94
The 2018 Syrah Estate is a fabulous example of both the estate and everything Ballard Canyon is about. Fabulously deep and expansive, the Estate captures tremendous character. The flavors are dark, brooding and so rich. Black cherry, plum, leather, spice and dried herbs abound. The 50% whole clusters are nicely integrated, but the tannins are equally imposing, so a measure of patience is critical. All of the other Syrahs in this range are compelling, but to me the Estate is the most complete. It's a reference-point wine for the appellation. Drink 2021-2030. (Antonio Galloni)

Wine Tasting Notes
Super giving and generous, the Estate Grown Syrah will be the cuvee that proves the magic of the 2018 growing season for all who taste it. The first red wine release from our Ballard Canyon estate, it represents an unprecedented leap in "yum quotient" I couldn't have dreamt possible when I took over the company 10 years ago. The thick, tantalizing red fruit through the palate bears a strong correlation to the best 2018 St. Joseph Syrah bottlings we tasted on our team's June 2019 trip to France. I am thrilled we locked in the current fresh profile and bottled in early September, just over 10 months after harvesting. The fierce red fruit bursting through the palate brings me back to the cellar of Gonon while the hint of tar brooding beneath reminds me of Monier Perreol. As the wine opens in the glass, more soul begins to emerge out of the pure prettiness. Not only is this wine a bombshell out of the gate, it will only begin to peak in 3-4 more years.

100% Syrahr

Alcohol 14.1%