2018 Nelle Coastview "Terraces" Syrah

The 2018 Terraces Syrah derives from Coastview Vineyard’s Casita Terrace block and Mesa del Sol’s Vineyard where each flourished on elevated portions of these special Monterey County sites. Terraced vineyards often produce some of the world's most distinctive wines. Etched into the hillside, the vines benefit from maximum sun exposure, airflow, and drainage, resulting in intense flavors and distinctive character.

The Terraces carries the sort of quirky elegance often associated with Sonoma Coast or Mendocino versions of this variety.  The chalky nose wafts distinct meatiness, with floral notes and weedy briar calmly expressing itself between bookends of cherry and concentrated boysenberry.  The Terraces is thick and leathery, with hints of savory braised beef and wet newsprint petrichor.  So wonderful to smell and smell...swirl and smell again: one of those wines you almost don't need to drink.  But drink it you must, and the complex density it deposits into your pores solidifies opinions of powerful beauty.  (Robert Parker: 94 points)