This bottling marks the fifth vintage for Holmes family as winemakers of the famous vines that Red Mountain pioneer Jim Holmes planted across Sunset Road from Kiona. However, this work with Syrah could stand alongside those from The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. Clones available at Ciel du Cheval include 174, Shiraz 02 and 99, a product of Tablas Creek from Château de Beaucastel in southern Rhône, and that Châteauneuf du Pape influence is apparent. There’s dried dark blue fruit behind the aromas of tapenade and hickory-smoked jerky. That gaminess really pops on the palate, as does the stream of Marionberry and blueberry with a burst of Montmorency cherry across the stylish tannins, leading to a remarkably bright finish. Suggested pairings include grilled lamb, braised meats, carpaccio and roasted vegetables with tarragon and rosemary.
Rating: Excellent – 88 points
Production: 250 cases
Alcohol 14.5%
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