95pts Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Deep ruby-purple, the 2019 Gibson Block Syrah has a core of cassis and soaring violet perfume with accents of coffee beans, dark chocolate, aniseed and mint. The full-bodied palate is powerful and concentrated with broody, iron-laced fruits, pleasantly chewy tannins and bright freshness elevating floral perfume on the finish.
95pts James Suckling
Some lovely rounded aromas of cut plums, black tea, well-ripened red cherries and sage. Medium-to full-bodied with tight tannins. Lovely, subtle concentration and intensity here. Generous without being overblown. Tar and bark. Driven with structure and length. A lovely example of what Northern California syrah is capable of. Best after 2024.
92pts Wine Enthusiast
Winemaker Notes
The Gibson Block is the heart of the McDowell Valley AVA. It is planted with some of the oldest Syrah and Grenache in California. This ancient, dry farmed mixed block next to the original Gibson Homestead has been producing grapes for over a hundred years. As a result of the vine age and miniscule yield, this wine is dark and intense. A heady mix of mulberry and lavender dominate the nose, with an edge of cinnamon stick. Broad, mouth-coating tannins are tethered to a core of smooth, sleek, powerful texture that is balanced by focused acid. Delicious with hearty fare now, and built to age.
Pair with cured meats and ripe cheeses, or duck breast with sage and cherries.
Organic