2007 Carlisle Syrah Cardiac Hill
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The nose of the 2007 Carlisle Syrah Cardiac Hill is dark, alluring, sweet, yet also showing an animal nature that really pulls me closer, as a mix of black fruit, licorice, baker’s chocolate, tobacco and peppery herbs develop in the glass. On the palate, I find luxurious, creamy textures, yet there is a lift, as the 2007 Cardiac Hill seems to hover across the senses, delivering notes of blackberry, sage, a hint of citrus and spice in a wonderfully balanced expression. The finish is long, still showing a bit of youthful tannic grip, as dark fruits fade against hints of licorice and purple florals.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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The dense purple-hued 2007 Syrah Cardiac Hill reveals sweet aromas of white flowers (acacia), blackberries, and cassis. Elegant, dense, and full-bodied with velvety tannins and a layered, textured mouthfeel, it should drink well for 6-10 years. One of California's most compelling success stories is Mike Officer's conversion from full-time software developer to full-time guardian of old vine Zinfandel vineyards and world-class producer of artisinal wines. Carlisle is a hugely successful winery, not only because of outstanding customer service, but because of the simple fact that it delivers great wines at extremely fair prices. Carlisle's 2008 Zinfandel crop is the smallest to date thanks to the spring frost, which cut yields by 30%. Consequently, production for all of these 2008s is down considerably. That said, the concentration levels are higher than ever, and the alcohol content is slightly higher than in 2007. The 2007 Syrahs (all 100% Syrah) showcase not only Mike Officer's uncanny knack for ferreting out top terroirs for Syrah, but also his artisinal, hands-off winemaking philosophy that seems to coax the finest characteristics out of all his vineyard sources. The 2008 Syrahs are concentrated, powerful reds, and I may be wrong, but it appears that Mike Officer is beginning to use a higher percentage of whole clusters (stems). Tel. (707) 566-7700; Fax (707) 566-7200
Deep ruby. Captivating aromas of red- and blackcurrant, smoked meat, olive and minerals remind me of a serious Cote-Rotie. Rich black raspberry and cassis flavors are complicated by cracked pepper, olive and candied violet, with silky tannins lending support and focus. The floral qualities gain strength on the finish, which is strikingly focused and very long. For this wine's quality, the price is a steal.