Displaying a deep magenta core and a purple edge, the 2017 Syrah Descendants Liégeois Dupont opens with dusty, dark fruit tones that sway with elements of black pepper and roasted herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the Syrah offers a balanced mid-palate with structured tannins and a soft, oaky finish that lingers with elements of toasted vanilla bean. The wine rested for 19 months in 52% new oak—of which 49% was new American oak—with the remainder consisting of mostly neutral French barrels. In years past, I don’t recall the American oak being so prevalent. Just under 14,000 bottles were made.