Bridlewood 1998 Winners Circle Syrah (Central Coast)

Country: US / California
Variety: Syrah
Winery: Bridlewood / Winners Circle

This represents the winery’s attempt to recreate a Côte Rôtie-like wine. It’s very similar to the regular bottling, with lots of ripe, fancy fruit, but it’s oakier, with 50% new American barrels. What really distinguishes it, though, is its balance. The only complaint, and it’s a minor one, is that the tannins are so soft, and the acidity so low, that it’s a bit flabby. Most people won’t notice or care.