From Chalone’s historic estate in the Gavilan Mountain Range—it’s the oldest producing vineyard in Monterey County, with an altitude of around 1,800 feet and limestone-based soils, the wines from this small AVA are incredibly distinct. The 2014 Vineyard Estate Syrah boasts roasted plums, blackberries, tobacco, cedar, tar, black pepper, oxblood, and even a bit of charred fat at the mid-palate. It’s a rippling, baritone wine with firm chalky tannins and a finish dusted sagebrush, spice, and limestone minerality. 14.5% ABV | Sample
92 Points