Also brilliant and offering uncommon levels of finesse and elegance, the 2011 Syrah Liberte Boushey Vineyard saw 25% whole cluster inclusion during fermentation and 13 months in puncheons prior to bottling. Sporting a vivid, semi-opaque ruby/purple color, it delivers notions of creamy raspberry, liquid flowers and pepper to go with a core of raspberry and blackberry liqueur-like fruit. Medium-bodied, seamless and beautifully polished, yet also with solid concentration and depth, this impressive Syrah should be given 2-3 years in the cellar and then enjoyed over the following 5-7 years. Drink 2017-2023.These wines are made by the talented Jon Meuret and feature incredibly pure, polished and perfectly balanced profiles that lean towards the lighter, fresher end of the spectrum. Nevertheless, they don’t lack for richness or depth and build on the palate. The 2010s, which I raved about last year, are still incredibly young, vibrant and in need of another handful of years in the cellar. The 2011s are made in the same vein and should have a similar trajectory.www.mbwinery.com

This wine requires significant breathing time and/or decanting. At first tight and slightly disjointed, it comes together into a concentrated and complex wine with a weave of violets, berries, black currant, licorice and chocolate flavors.——P.G.(12/15/2011)—— 91