The 2010 Claret is quite different from previous vintages in that it includes 30% Syrah Goldridge, which gives the wine a sense of structure and tannin that is a bit unusual for this bottling. Racy and dark in its introspection, the 2010 is likely to require a few a good years in bottle before it starts showing well. Olives, black cherries, sage, rosemary and licorice are all woven into the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.
Tom and Eva Dehlinger's wines stand out for many reasons, including their very fair prices. This year I thought the Syrahs were particularly of note. Yields have been down in the last few years because of a conversion back to cane pruning, but with 2011 yields are up to a bit higher than normal. The Dehlinger wines are beautiful, full of character and richly deserving of a broader audience.
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