2006 Ramey Syrah Shanel Vineyard

Slightly better is the 2006 Syrah Shanel Vineyard. It includes 3% Viognier, but it is less noticeable at this stage. An opaque purple color is followed by enormous quantities of blackberries intermixed with tapenade, acacia flowers, and truffles. Full-bodied, meaty, and dense, it cuts an even broader mouthfeel than its sibling. It, too, can be drunk over the next decade. David Ramey’s Healdsburg operation is becoming bigger and bigger, as evidenced by his 60,000-case production in both 2006 and 2007. However, quality continues to be exciting, offering a broad array of Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, and more recently, a handful of Syrahs. The entry level Chardonnays include three generic appellations, Carneros, Russian River, and Sonoma Coast. All three need to be consumed sooner rather than later. The three single vineyard Chardonnays are all from top sites, the Hudson and Hyde vineyards in Carneros, and the Russian River’s Ritchie Vineyard. Production is much smaller for these cuvees, from just under 1,400 cases for the Hudson to over 2,500 cases for the Hyde. Tel. (707) 433-0870; Fax (707) 433-0871

Glass-staining purple. Sharply focused cherry, cassis and anise aromas are enlivened by Asian spices and fresh lavender. Fresh and juicy, offering sweet dark berry preserve flavors and good mineral lift. Really stains the palate, finishing with impressive tangy cut and thrust.