Deep ruby. Intensely spiced red and dark berry aromas, with strong licorice and black olive accents. Fleshy, pure red and dark berry and cherry flavors are supported by gentle acidity and fine tannins, turning sweeter with air; at once highly concentrated and elegant. Long, silky and spicy on the impressively deep but vivacious finish. 'My version of Cote-Rotie.'Josh Raynolds, Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar.

'The 2005 Syrah Bennett Valley exhibits a distinctive meaty/bacon fat character along with tapenade, blackberries, and cherries. A Cote Rotie-like character is found in this big, rich, fleshy Syrah.'Robert Parker