Gripa, Domaine Bernard
Rhone, France
Saint-Joseph
Syrah
2005
$36.99
13.0%
Dark and opaque purple core, equally deep red magenta rims, moderate cleanliness, still youthful in appearance. Smoky nose, molasses and a touch of bacon, the roast extends to the ripe plum, black currant fruit, notes of lilacs, plays high in the register and penetrates well. Medium-bodied, on the dry side and somewhat short as a result. Savory and earthy more than smoky here. Elevated leather, close to sauvage animal hide. The fruit redder in the mouth, strawberry, red cherry to green apple, the brightness the main characteristic rather than sweetness. Light mentholated touch. Maybe the barest hint of caramel but no substantial oak presence. Lively yet not fully open for business.
89 points