Grapelive Review:
By Kerry Winslow
***
2007 Rudius Syrah “Emerald Pool” Alder Springs, Mendocino County.
Very Cote-Rotie like with lots of violets, blueberry, boysenberry and cassis, hints of meat and spice add to this elegant Syrah. Jeff Ames, winemaker at Tor and one of the hottest consultants in Napa, crafted this wine in a most natural fashion, all natural yeast and small bins used for fermentation were the original picking bins, so no harsh pumping or transfers were used. The “Emerald Pool” has wonderful life and texture and the finish is remarkably long and rich. I would love to have this wine in a line up of top Cote-Roties, tried blind, as I’m sure it would surprise and amaze in that company. This is a sublime wine and one I hope to get more of myself!
($45 Est.) 95+ Points, grapelive
***