2010 Broken Stones Syrah

Savory notes meld into black olives, crushed rocks and graphite as the 2010 Broken Stones opens up in the glass. The 2010 stands out for its length and persistence. I had expected the 2010 to be a little bit more expressive, but post-bottling it remains tightly coiled and reticent. Readers will have to be a bit more patient here. Broken Stones is 63% Syrah, 19% Mourvèdre, 15% Grenache and 3% Petite Sirah.

(63% syrah, 19% mourvedre, 15% grenache and 3% petite sirah; 15.3% alcohol): A complex, smoky bouquet evokes red and dark berry liqueur, candied flowers and Asian spices. Supple and juicy on the palate, with zesty acidity giving spine and lift to the powerful black raspberry and mulberry flavors. The smoky note comes back on the strikingly long, mineral-driven finish, which is focused, sweet and extremely long.

A rush of dark Syrah fruit announces the 2010 Broken Stones. Menthol licorice, tar and sweet spices develop with time in the glass, adding considerable complexity and nuance. This is a seriously rich, intense wine endowed with deep layers of fruit and a huge, muscular finish. Here, too, I sense the wine is a bit tight, but it should be ready to go in another 6 months or so. The blend is 63% Syrah, 19% Mourvèdre, 15% Grenache and 3% Petite Sirah.