1996 Qupé Syrah Bien Nacido Hillside Estate
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Tasting notes
The 1996 Syrah Hillside Estate Bien Nacido Vineyard is medium-bodied, richly fruity, and uncomplex. It offers an attractive berry and cassis flavor profile. Made in an accessible, easy to understand style, it should drink well for 3-4 years. Qupe, one of the original Rhone Rangers, continues to do a fine job with an assortment of varietals. Tel. (805) 688-2477; Fax (805) 686-4480
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Deep red-ruby. Complex, smoky aromas of black cherry, raspberry, cocoa powder, vanilla and game. Supple and firm, but the acids currently dominate on the palate. Quite oaky, with the finish slightly dried by the wood. This wine already shows a lot of personality but comes across as rather disjointed today. Still, it showed more texture and richness as it opened in the glass, suggesting that it will repay a couple years of bottle aging.