Known for its Zinfandels and Naked Chardonnay, Four Vines Winery is capable of so much more. Creative and fun, these guys boast wines named Biker and Heretic, and the aforementioned “Naked” line, indicating its lack of oak usage in the Chardonnay. Sourced from Paso Robles, where warm weather rules and Four Vines resides, this juicy, full-bodied syrah reaches ripeness levels resembling blackberry, black raspberry and blueberry pie. There is nothing shy about this juice. So extracted it’s opaque, so rich it’s chewy and the alcohol, well, it’s in there too. Full frontal and concentrated like you’re eating overripe berries from the bush. But it can’t be labeled a “fruitbomb”… it’s got more going on than that. There’s some bright acidity, especially on the finish, as well as moderate tannins which keep it from going over the Kool Aid edge. A wine for sipping but also could be paired with hearty, fatty barbecue or burgers.
Sweetness: 3 (out of 10)
Rating: 4 stars
Price: ~$20
Occasion: Tasted blind at a wine professional’s tasting
Food pairing: Barbecue ribs, Beef Stroganoff (like this recipe)
Availability: Check out Four Vines’ website to find out where to buy their wines
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I love Syrah, especially from Paso.
This one goes into my shopping notes on the phone.
Thanks!