Beverage of the Week (BOW)

Cornerstone Cellars Black Label Syrah Napa Valley 2012

Product Story

The 2012 vintage was a banner one for those in the Napa Valley particularly anyone with vineyards at elevation. Sunny days and cool nights promoted long, slow ripening and a depth of fruit flavor and character that can only be achieved in the best years. This beauty is made with 100% Syrah from the Soda Canyon Vineyard in Atlas Peak. The harvest took place in early October. The wine matured for 18 months in French Burgundy casks with 40% being new casks and 60% seasoned casks. This wine has tremendous aging potential in my opinion but the difficult thing will be keeping away from it for five years.

Brand Story

Each wine has the unmistakable thumbprint of Craig Camp, Cornerstone's managing partner. Craig is a wine industry veteran with a sharp palate. He seeks wines with depth, style, and balance and this is the only kind of wine he will make.

Tasting Note

Deepest, darkest, ruby red with purple highlights. After aerating (you must decant this wine) the true aromatics emerge offering scents of red and black cherry, plum, and blueberry with waves of heather, wild herbs, allspice, anise, and hints of vanilla bean. The palate absolutely confirms the fruit signature of the nose with subtle forest floor and smoked bacon notes joining the chorus. The spice signature builds on the finish with black pepper lingering for minutes. This is a rich and chewy wine with perfect balance so it never feels heavy or brooding. Subtle, soft tannins rise on the back-palate to offer structure and length.

How to Serve

You must decant this wine. If you open this bottle and pour a glass you will encounter a pleasing wine but you will wonder why I am raving. Two hours in a decanter will be enough time to allow this wine to show you what it has. Pair with beef stew or grilled lamb chops or just some crusty bread.

Price: $ 40

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