2013 Proper Walla Walla Valley Syrah

(made by Sean Boyd of Rotie Cellars from seven-year-old vines in the Rocks; 14.8% alcohol, vs. 13.9% for the 2012 bottling): Deep, bright ruby. Wild, musky aromas of black raspberry, resinous herbs, balsamic vinegar, sun-dried tomatoes and smoked meat. Plush, saline and deep, with its fruit sweetness countered by savory notes of smoked meat and warm rocks. Conveys a high-pH mouthfeel without going sloppy. Downright velvety on the finish, with very suave, fine-grained tannins and subtle persistence. (ST)