2015, 2019, 2021 Joseph Phelps "Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard" Napa Valley Syrah

“The 2015 Syrah is a beauty! Ripe, forward and incredibly sexy, with awesome notes of black raspberries, blueberries, spiced meats and spring flowers, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, loads of sweet California fruit, and a light, elegant texture that keeps it lively and oh so drinkable.” (12/2017)

“Composed of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier, the 2015 Syrah Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard displays a medium to deep garnet-purple color and a lovely floral nose of violets and lavender over a core of black cherries, blackberries and cracked pepper with hints of anise and garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a chewy backbone and lovely freshness with plenty of pepper and spice notes and a pleasant lift that follows through in the long finish. (LPB) 91+” (10/2017)

“The 2015 Syrah Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard is soft, supple and inviting. Sweet red and purplish fruit notes are pushed forward in a delicate, understated Syrah. In 2015, winemaker Ashley Hepworth decided to not use whole clusters because of the high percentage of shot berries. As a result, the 2015 is decidedly fruit driven in style. Dark red and purplish fruit, spice, leather, cedar and tobacco fill out the ample frame nicely with floral notes that appear later. (AG)” (03/2018)

“The 2019 Syrah Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard is a blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier. The Syrah came from the Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard Syrah and the Viognier is from the St. Helena Home Ranch. It is being aged for 18 months in 33% New French oak puncheons and 67% two- to four-year-old French Oak puncheons. Deep garnet-purple in color, it leaps from the glass with gregarious scents of warm black plums, blueberry pie and blackberry preserves, plus suggestions of bouquet garni, black pepper, violets and star anise. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with juicy black fruits and loads of pepper and spice sparks, framed by soft, rounded tannins, finishing long and fragrant.(LPB) 93-95+” (03/2021)

“I always love the Syrah from this estate. The 2019 Syrah Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard packs lots of Old World complexity and character while still offering beautiful California fruit. Côte-Rôtie-like notes of black raspberries, smoked game, green herbs, lavender, and floral notes all emerge from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a smoky, meaty, gamey style, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's another gorgeous California Syrah to enjoy over the coming 10-12 years or more.” (01/2021)

“Very typical syrah with green tobacco leaf, tar and dark fruit. Some meat, too. Lightly peppery. Medium to full body. Juicy finish. 40% whole cluster, and co-fermented with 5% viognier. Delicious now and can age. Drink or hold.” (07/2022)

“The 2019 Syrah Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard is done in a bright style that emphasizes racy, red-toned fruit. Dollops of Viognier and a good bit whole clusters (50%) in fermentation add attractive floral top notes. This vibrant Syrah has so much to offer. Red/purplish berry fruit, rose petal, lavender and spice grace the super-expressive finish. The 2019 needs a few years to soften, but it is very fine. (AG)” (09/2021)

“A gorgeous wine, the 2021 Syrah Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard has classic blackberry, violet, peppery herb, and some bacon fat notes to go with a pure, medium to full-bodied, layered, seamless style on the palate. The blend is 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier that's co-fermented, with the aging spanning 18 months in 36% new puncheons.” (12/2023)

“he 2021 Syrah Hyde Vineyard is terrific. Rich, ample and layered, with exceptional polish, the 2021 dazzles from start to finish. Inky dark fruit, mocha, spice, new leather and lavender are beautifully delineated. This is supremely delicious.” (12/2023)