Cline California Syrah 2003

Cline California Syrah 2003 was sourced primarily from Sonoma Coast and Carneros, with smaller portions from Oakley and Lodi. A small amount of Mourvèdre was added. Production: 11,500 cases.

Aging was "on dark toasted French oak". Charlie Tsegeletos is Winemaker at Cline Cellars. Tasting Notes:  Color: Dark ruby with a purplish tint, translucent. Here's an aromatic Syrah, sort of sweet smelling, with lots of blueberry*, nutmeg, raspberry, spicy oak and citrus rind coming out of the glass. On the tongue, the weight is medium-bodied, with fine peppery tannins. Tart blue and red fruit flavors are ripe and ready. The finish is velvety and easy going. Closure: Real cork. Very nice value ($10).

*Actually, my first impression was a Krispy Kreme blueberry filled doughnut, a distant past aroma memory.