Marietta McDowell Valley Gibson Block Syrah 2019

This ancient, dry farmed mixed block next to the original Gibson Homestead has been producing grapes for over a hundred years. As a result of the vine age and miniscule yield, this wine is dark and intense. A heady mix of mulberry and lavender dominate the nose, with an edge of cinnamon stick. Broad, mouth-coating tannins are tethered to a core of smooth, sleek, powerful texture that is balanced by focused acid. Delicious with hearty fare now, and built to age.

95/100 - Deep ruby-purple, the 2019 Gibson Block Syrah has a core of cassis and soaring violet perfume with accents of coffee beans, dark chocolate, aniseed and mint. The full-bodied palate is powerful and concentrated with broody, iron-laced fruits, pleasantly chewy tannins and bright freshness elevating floral perfume on the finish. - Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate 

92/100 - Extra ripe and deep blueberry and blackberry flavors meet dark chocolate, mint and graphite in this fully tannic and robust blend based on Syrah and Grenache. It's a palate bruiser that ideally needs time to mellow in texture. Best from 2026. - Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast

95/100 - Some lovely rounded aromas of cut plums, black tea, well-ripened red cherries and sage. Medium-to full-bodied with tight tannins. Lovely, subtle concentration and intensity here. Generous without being overblown. Tar and bark. Driven with structure and length. A lovely example of what Northern California Syrah is capable of. Best after 2024. - James Suckling