The 2012 Syrah Papa’s Block (100% Syrah) is a 400-case cuvee that achieved 14.5% natural alcohol. Thirty percent whole clusters were used, and about 20% new French oak. The wine exhibits lots of blackberry fruit, charcoal and spring flower characteristics in a full-bodied, opulent, irresistible, richly fruity, plush style. Consume it over the next 6-10 years. Carlisle Winery’s Mike Officer and his wife are one of the wonderful stories in the wine world. Going from a part-time home winemaker, to turning out some of his beloved Zinfandels, to becoming one of the two or three leading guardians of old vine Zinfandel in Northern California, Mike Officer was so good at making wine that he changed careers and wine consumers are the beneficiaries. The single vineyard Zins are absolutely remarkable. Everyone who loves Zinfandel should be on Carlisle’s mailing list, the wines are primarily available only from the winery. Sadly, Mike Officer is not making as much Syrah as he used to given the difficult marketplace for this varietal. That’s a shame, as great Syrahs are truly magnificent wines. Tel. (707) 566-7700