Cattleya Wines 2019 The Initiation Syrah

The brilliant 2018 vintage in the Santa Lucia Highlands was a tough act to follow, but 2019 is proving to be more than up to the challenge. Finely etched, precise fruit is a hallmark, while the wines should age gracefully on their balance and well-integrated tannins. The 2019s can be drunk young or cellared; either way, they are going to deliver a lot of pleasure throughout their lives.

Opaque ruby. Assertively perfumed kirsch, dark berry preserve, violet pastille, vanilla and smoky mineral aromas show fine delineation and spicy lift. Sappy and expansive on the palate, presenting intense boysenberry, bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors that deepen and become sweeter as the wine opens up. Deftly blends richness and vivacity and finishes impressively long and floral, with well-judged tannins and reverberating spiciness.

96 Points, Vinous