2016 Epoch Syrah Block B
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Tasting notes
The 2016 Block B is a stunning Syrah that offers concentration without weight and exceptional aromatic layering at this early stage in bottle. A touch of matchstick quickly recedes and lush black fruits laced with pure touches of mint leaves, coffee beans and lilac flood the senses in its place. The palate is seamless and supple, layered and long, its early harmony suggesting this will continue to evolve in the cellar over the next decade or more. This iteration was harvested September 13-16, crafted using 20% whole clusters and matured for 19 months in 80% new French oak. 438 cases were made.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Youthful purple color. Expansive, deeply perfumed aromas of black and blue fruit preserves, licorice, Moroccan spices, olive paste and potpourri, along with a building suggestion of incense. Stains the palate with densely packed blueberry, cherry-cola, cassis and spicecake flavors that become more energetic as the wine opens up. A violet pastille nuance gains strength with aeration and carries through an extremely long, mineral-accented finish that shows outstanding definition and spicy thrust. (JR)
Coming all from a single parcel in the estate Paderewski Vineyard (all Syrah, and clone 174) and raised in 80% new French oak, the 2016 Syrah Block B reveals a saturated purple color as well as a massive bouquet of blackberries, blueberries, bacon fat, graphite, ground pepper, and violets. Deep, rich, and powerful, yet still light on its feet, it's one of the most singular, brilliant Syrahs in the vintage.