2020 The Source | 1.5L Magnum

"I never dreamed about success. I worked for it." — Estée Lauder

 

Denner, Fulldraw, Peake Ranch, John Sebastiano, Kimsey, Bien Nacido & Slide Hill Vineyards    
 

Once we popped the cork on 2020’s The Source, we couldn’t help but be intoxicated with its aroma. The nose brings a weighty waft of violets, blackcurrant, dark chocolate, leather and a meaty umami note (think soy-glazed pork belly). The palate mirrors with rich black fruit, swaying to-and-fro with black pepper and the natural smokiness that Syrah is so known for. Cooler climate lots along with a small percentage of whole cluster inclusion can take credit for the spice element, while Paso’s inimitable Willow Creek District vineyards pack the dense fruit. Featuring silky tannins, for us, it's pure perfection in a glass. 
 

Varietals were handpicked from September 17 to October 14, 2020, at the peak of flavor ripeness and phenolic maturity. Grapes were carefully cluster sorted, 95% destemmed (5% whole cluster) and fermented in stainless steel. After a cold maceration, daily punch-downs, pump-overs and pneumotage were conducted.

 

93 pts | Wine Enthusiast
93 pts | James Suckling