94
2012 lillian, syrah, california
Why We're Buying
Winemaker Lillian Harrison has helped put the Central Coast on the map with her eponymous syrah. What makes it unique is that it isn't very syrah-like at all. The red wine has refined earthy qualities that emphasize the delicate structure. Wine.com praised it as "the embodiment of true femininity."
Critics Scores
94
Vinous
Inky purple. Hugely perfumed black and blue fruit aromas are complicated by suggestions of vanilla, incense and cola. Fleshy, palate-staining cassis and boysenberry flavors gain sweetness and spiciness with air, picking up licorice pastille and violet nuances that gain strength on the back half. Finishes smooth and sweet, with velvety tannins adding shape to a strikingly long, broad, spice-tinged finish. (JR)