2011 Big Basin Vineyards Syrah Old Corral Block

Would like to give a shout out to Bradley Brown at Big Basin Vineyards who hosted us on a wonderul visit in the Santa Cruz Mtns in July 2016. 

The Old Corral Block is a steep Estate vineyard (very beautiful, idyllic terrain), planted primarily to Alban Powerblock Syrah clone.  The cuvee usually includes 10% to 15% Grenache and a dollop of Viognier, aging for a couple of years in French oak. 

I have been a fan of Big Basin pinot noir for a while, and was recently introduced to the Rhone-varietal offerings.  This 2011 Old Corral bottling is just downright delicious.  Well balanced at 13.5% abv (bravo!). Decanted for 4 hours before dinner , which really helped to open things up. 

Elegant florals accented by leather notes. The allure of the palate over the evening took me a bit by surprise.  I was not expecting a lot since I had tasted this at the winery last summer, and it was quite reticent. This evening, with extended aeration, the black raspberry fruit is very, very tasty.  The addition of Grenache and Viognier to the Syrah blend provide the complexity that keeps you coming back again and again. An understated, traditional Rhone interpretation which I greatly enjoyed. Olive notes, subtle pepper, sous bois and a bit of stoniness round out the picture. A very popular wine at dinner tonight.