When we ask Carl how he describes his Syrah he says that it reminds him of a Northern Rhone. Good! Because the last thing we want is another Syrah fruit bomb from Sonoma or Napa. It really is one of those things that too much is just too much. When we got down to the nitty gritty Carl revealed that while he was aiming more for a Crozes Hermitage, he ended up with more of a Cornas - good minerality and not so much density. Again we say, good! His wines do what you want every wine you have to do - they make you salivate. Just one more sip you think between bites of delicious pulled pork or short rib. They're meat wines, game wines, but they're full of character and grip. We would even say "lean" and not in the negative way, but in the volcanic, minerally and earthy way. Good acidity and brightness.
The 2006 has some elegant fruity elements and some great tart and acidic grip. Bennett Valley is formed by Sonoma Mountain which is known for its volcanic soil with a temperature swing of more than fifty degrees from day to night. It contributes to its great acidity and structure. It's beggin' for fatty meats and earthy mushroom frittatas. It is mid-weight with a long mineral finish and good bright red currant and dried cherry notes. Built for food (could I say it again?)it could be decanted (it's unfined and unfiltered) and will nicely round out your dinner.
Sutton Syrah Bennet Valley 2006 $22 a bottle
