2008 Kongsgaard "Hudson Vineyards" Napa Valley Syrah

More voluptuous and round than either the '07 or '09, the 2008 Kongsgaard Syrah Hudson Vineyard delivers a full throttle, sexy profile with decadent black fruits, mint, roasted meats, and chocolate on the nose.

Not quite as bright ruby in color as the 2007 but very dark at the core. Knockout nose combines blueberry, blackberry, flowers, caraway seed and pungent, high-pitched Moroccan spices, complemented by a subtle note of truffley forest floor. Offers a stunning combination of energy and thickness on the palate, with almost shockingly youthful flavors of dark berries and flowers dominating. Finishes with outstanding energy and length. This should be long-lived. 'The 2008 rose up a year ago to out-energize the 2007,' was the way Kongsgaard put it, noting that the quality and potential longevity of this wine was not apparent until a year ago. (ST) 94+