Plumpjack 2023 Syrah, Napa Valley

97 pts                                                                                           
New release of Plumpjack's Syrah- limited.

97 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The Plumpjack 2023 Syrah is the bomb. Inky, deep and explosive, the 2023 is seriously impressive. A blast of dark cherry fruit, lavender, licorice, espresso and dried herbs stains the palate. The 22% stems are buried under waves of fruit. This unctuous, full-throttle Syrah has so much to offer."

94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "From Carneros and Atlas Peak, this is rocking stuff, offering juicy blackberry, peppery herbs, game, and California Bay aromatics. Based on 100% Syrah that was 22% whole-cluster fermented and aged 18 months in 60% new French oak, the 2023 Syrah is medium to full-bodied, with a round, layered mouthfeel, ripe yet certainly present tannins, and a great finish."

Grown in Napa, but inspired by the Northern Rhone style, the PlumpJack 2023 Syrah exhibits a smoky, gamey nose layered with white and black pepper, with complementary notes of blueberry and raspberry aromatics. Well structured, the palate is full of bright raspberries, black pepper and smoke. This wine has beautiful finesse, great concentration and vibrant acidity. 

The 2023 PlumpJack Syrah is an expressive and layered wine, showcasing the best of both the Carneros and Atlas Peak vineyards from which this wine is crafted. The nose opens with fresh blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry. Beneath the fruit are the wilder savory notes that make Syrah so exciting—peppercorn, clove, nutmeg, and smoked meats. The oak aging contributes warmth and depth with notes of cocoa, mocha, and Earl Grey tea. The flavors on the palate echo those on the nose—sweet blackberry, cherry, and blueberry, leading to luxuriant notes of cocoa, mocha, caramel, and spice. The palate is full and concentrated with firm yet ripe tannins and juicy acidity that, together, create a stunning Syrah with impeccable balance, vibrant energy, and great length.