2011 Herman Story Syrah/Grenache Larner Vineyard
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The 2011 Larner Vineyard is 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache that spent 16 months in 80% new French oak. It’s another serious effort that has fabulous purity, medium to full-bodied richness and a focused, clean and classy personality. Showing notions of cassis, licorice, milk chocolate and baking spices, it should be consumed over the coming 5-6 years. I loved these latest releases from winemaker Russell From. His 2011s are excellent in the vintage, with slightly toned down, elegant profiles that stay focused and tight on the palate. His 2012s are even better, with hedonistic, textured profiles and fantastic purity of fruit. They’re all worth checking out. Tel. (805) 714-9966; www.hermanstorywines.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Firm beams of tannin run through the 2011 Larner Vineyard. Dark red-toned fruit, crushed rocks, mint and sweet spices emerge from this energetic, tense Syrah/Grenache blend. Readers should plan on giving the Larner at least another year in bottle, but the 2011 is likely to remain tense and nervous in style.