2011 Domaine Philippe Faury, Syrah “L’ Art Zele” Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes, Rhone France.
Wow, what a pretty wine, and a steal, this Domaine Faury Syrah L’ Art Zele is made from young vines in Cote-Rotie and the terroir and class really shine through, making from an early drinking elegant Syrah that is full of beauty and style. No waiting required here, the nose gives plenty of violets, earth, white pepper and blueberry before a medium palate of boysenberry, dried currants, kirsch and creme de cassis while the background is filled with crushed stones, lavender, anise and briar notes. This wine is pretty, sexy and hard to put down with good vigor, acidity and savory making you take another sip, in fact I didn’t want to put it down, it was so delicious. Even though it was made from young vines, the tannins are refined and graceful, and while not as intense as a full blown Cote-Rotie this wine damn impressive and it was made with an artisan passion no question, and I’ll be drinking a few more of these myself.
($32 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive