2015 Mossik Kahn Vineyard SyrahLovall Valley, Napa Valley

In its younger years I didn't love this wine, I liked it and was proud of it, but stylistically preferred the higher-toned '14. The 2015 growing season was a warm one, and the fruit came in riper and a little more lush than my typical leanings. Apparently it just needed more time because damn was I ever blown away when opening up a bottle to re-taste before this release. What struck me most is its power and refined tannin structure, elements that weren't as apparent in its youth. Perhaps inspired by the cold snap lately, I want to be in a cozy cabin in the snow with this in my glass. 

• Blackberry, animal pelt, oil-cured olives, untoasted cumin seed, the slightest hint of lavender (coincidentally, the Kahn vineyard has an amazing adjacent lavender field)
• 100% whole cluster, open-top fermentation. Élevage (12ish months) in 10+ year old Burgundy barrels
• 13.2% ABV