2003 Bella Big River Ranch Syrah

Yeah, I've given Bella Vineyards big props before, for their Hillside Cuvee in fact. I like these guys. Nope, never met 'em but they seem like they'd be a kick to hang with. And whatever, I DIG the wines.

The latest? A syrah of all crackhead crazy things. I swear to the lord I have tasted dozens of Syrahs and I haven't been a fan. Robo-Tussin is what my main takeaway is. And I only like 'tussin when my momma is given it to me. Nevermind. Anyhoo, what that means, is cough-syrupy, kinda hot, over extracted. Not enjoyable when you need a chaser with your Syrah. 'Nuff said.

So, on with the review - I'll tell ya, this is a big  ballsy wine. They shoulda called it the Big Balls Ranch Syrah. The nose? Well, since you asked so politely, it has a nose I believe that pinhead Robert Parker (junior) would describe as '...a nose hair burner...' I mean, this stuff jumps outta the bottle, grabs a wad o' those curlies and sets fire to 'em. Whew. Which worried me a little 'cuz I figured, here's another of those hotter than satan's bbq Syrahs. (Like how I so eloquently wove in references to both the lord jesus and satan all in one post? Are there awards for this stuff?).

Enough with the nose, ya don't get drunk snorting this stuff. It tastes great! Earthy notes, but not vegetative. Dark very ripe blackberry fruit, moving on to  a subtle chocolate flavor melding into a nice spicy white pepper finish. That's right! Next up, I just tasted a great Syrah from Trouchard, look for the post! Two good Syrahs in a row, WTF is going on?!

The Bella site is sold out :(, check for it on WineZap, VinQuire or somewhere else. Or try a different vintage, you'll still love it.

Bella Vineyards & Wine Caves
9711 West Dry Creek Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
866.572.3552