2022 Fingers Crossed Life and Death Syrah | Oak View, Ventura County California 750ml

...This purebred stallion is a sight to behold. Shimmering in the glass, glossy, bright and poised. The chiseled structure, crisp acidity and decadent bright red fruits are built for the long haul. In delightful contrast to the diversity of the GSM+ "Red Wine", this vixen is pure, 100% unadulterated Syrah. Nothing else. Like a flawless diamond, we focused all our attention on not detracting from this brilliant elixir. Sure, we tinkered, tasted and tried, but truth be told we found that Syrah did not play nicely with others in this vintage. Somewhat of a bully, actually. Every component added to the blend was overpowered and diminished by the unique voice of this solo artist. Prepare your tastebuds for a creamy and indulgent experience with tasting notes of cooked strawberries, fig preserve, pepper, cedar and bright acidity to keep your mouth watering. The grapes come from Bien Nacido and Stolpman and spent 21 months of their lives inside of 61% ne French oak. We racked the wine off its lees via gravity once during elevage and employed 18% whole clusters during fermentatiokn to boost aromatics. 23 barrels produced. | Nikolas & Julia Krankl, Fingers Crossed

Dramatically different from the Red Wine, the 2022 Syrah Life & Death reveals a slightly deeper ruby/plum hue as well as a gamey, classic Syrah perfume of blackberries, bouquet garni, ground black pepper, and smoked bacon fat. It's full-bodied, plush, has a round, sexy mouthfeel, and a blockbuster finish. | 96-99 points, Jeb Dunnuck for jebdunnuck.com