2005 Sean Thackrey - Orion Old Vine (Rossi Vineyard) Proprietary Blend - USA - California - Napa - St Helena - Red

Very nice nose showing sweet raspberry fruit with a touch of danky earthiness that I think it was a contribution from Mouvedre. Lots of ripe frambois-laden raspberry fruit provides an enormous bouquet. Deep, rich raspberry flavors; a huge midpalate showcases the beautiful fruit. The wine got better as it sat in the glass, showing racy forward raspberry/red oriented fruit and some leathery character adding more dimension. Delicious and a perfect example of what great Cali syrah should strive for.

Stellar Rhone-style blend from the "Bacchus of Bolinas." Lovely aromatics of dark plum, dark berries, the requisite eucalyptus and just the right kiss of oak. These follow through beautifully on the palate with moderate tannins, balanced acidity and a long, somewhat earthy finish. The wine opens and evolves continously in the glass, becoming ever more beguiling; a wine to linger over, a wine to meditate upon.

dirty soiled delicious. dark, muted fruit, like tasting forest floor.