| Single vineyard wines are supposed to be a cut above.
Without fail, the Benzinger 2003 Stone Family Vineyard
delivers impeccably. The wine shows an opaque plum/purple
core that fades to a purple rim. While the lovely color
captivates the eyes, the nose is quickly drawn into the
aromas of ripe jammy berry fruit, anise, smoke, spice and
tar along with an even subtle floral note. I found this
bottle to have some barnyard aromas upon opening that
breathed off within a few minutes in the glass. The palate
is well rewarded with silky tannins that provide a fine
astringency within this full bodied Syrah. The flavors tend
to follow the nose and the wine parts with a persistent
finish. Sexy and delicious, this wine delivers plenty of
drinking enjoyment. |