2008 Myriad Syrah 100% Whole Cluster Las Madres Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2008 Syrah 100% Whole Cluster Las Madres Vineyard is much more subdued aromatically, which surprised me. The color is a dark plum/ruby and the wine exhibits more tartness and acidity, giving it a lean, tight mouthfeel. It is much less impressive than the 10% Whole Cluster cuvee, but are the different approaches to cluster the explanation? A new discovery for me, Myriad Cellars’ offerings all performed well in my tastings. Three 2008 Cabernet Sauvignons were presented and once again, the top wines of this vintage give the great 2007s a run for their money (which was hard to imagine 12 months ago). Obviously, the tiny crop has added a level of concentration and the tannins have mellowed beautifully over the last year. The two 2008 Syrahs are seemingly an exercise in 10% whole cluster fermentations versus 100% whole cluster. Tel. (707) 287-1630
Critic scores
Robert Parker
About the producer
Mike Smith is one of Napa’s leading winemakers, crafting top-scoring wines for the likes of Quivet, PerChance, Kindred and Flora Springs. Myriad Cellars is his personal label, run with his wife Leah.