Displaying a classic ruby core, the 2018 Syrah In The Rocks was made with the addition of 10% Viognier and rockets out of the glass with complex fruit and floral aromas. Elements of orange blossom, honeysuckle and damson flower entice the nose with elements of spiced cherry compote, black raspberry skin, a rocky mineral essence and subtle oak tones. Medium-bodied and with 13% alcohol, the Syrah is instantly impressive in the mouth with incredible complexity, a balanced structure, rich, elegant fruit flavors and a floral nuance. Concluding with a long-lingering and ever-evolving finish, the wine remains persistent across the aftertaste and begs me back for second, third and fourth sips. Made with 30% whole clusters, the wine rested for a year and a half in 30% new puncheons. Bravo! I want more. Only 9,100 bottles were filled.

Deep ruby colored with soft purple highlights, the 2017 Syrah In The Rocks opens with a vibrant yet rustic nose of black pepper, dusty plum, currant and blackberry, with hints of olive and lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is slightly shy across the mid-palate but is framed by succulent tannins and energetic acidity with a mineral tension that displays the profile of Syrah effortlessly. Showing an elegant and persistent finish, the wine concludes with soft, dusty tones and a black-fruited essence. Drink over the next 10 to 15 years.

The 2016 Syrah In The Rocks has a tart core of black fruit on the nose, with a touch of flowers and a firm base of minerality that almost overpowers the black pepper and oak spices. The wine is medium to full-bodied on the palate, with some good minerality and grippy tannins that show the same seriousness as the "In the Hills" bottling of the same range. It has a focused, linear expression on the finish with a mineral grip and tannic edge. 673 cases made.

Co-fermented with 6% Viognier, the 2015 Syrah In The Rocks is striking, bursting from the glass with an expressive nose of potpourri, wild plums, espresso roast and grilled meats. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, lavish and velvety, with savory flavors of roasted meats and wild dark fruits, concluding with a sapid, saline finish. While I don't think this boasts the depth and dimension of this cuvée's best vintages, it's a beautiful wine with a strong personality.