2007 Keplinger Sumo
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Tasting notes
(78% petite sirah, 18% syrah and 4% viognier): Deep ruby. Very ripe, expressive aromas of inky dark berries, violet and licorice, plus an exotic hint of peach (from the viognier?). Then juicy, spicy and nicely delineated, with a smoked meat element from the syrah. Rich but not heavy or glyceral; in fact, this wine gracefully avoids the monolithic character of most petite sirahs. Finishes with broad, serious but thoroughly ripe tannins.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
A big, ripe wine that stays classy and elegant, the 2007 Keplinger Petite Sirah Sumo Shake Ridge, a blend of 78% Petite Sirah, 18% Syrah, and 4% Viognier, exhibits decadent aromas of blueberry pie, crème de cassis, violets, tar, underbrush, and toasted spice. This smoothes out with air, and the palate is surprisingly civilized and supple, possessing beautifully ripe fruit, a silky, smooth texture, and a long finish where the wine shows its depth and structure. Straight up delicious and shows class. Drink over the next decade.