Redline Wines

A new label from San Luis Obispo native Larry Roberts. He provides a very good buy in this friendly, easy-sipping Syrah. Delicious aromas and flavors of sweet-tart plums, blackberries and blueberries meld with hints of mocha, smoke and game. It’s a well-balanced wine that ends on a long spicy note.

Roberts, who’s made wines in Paso Robles since 1982, has a hit with his debut line-up under this label of three impressive Syrahs which include Mendocino and Monterey appellations.

At Blue Oaks Vineyards, located in northwest Paso Robles, the soils are loamy with streaks of calcareous rock. Under new ownership, last year they began expanding the existing vineyard and renamed it Arroyo Robles Vineyard. Roberts reports the block was still recovering from frost damage in 2001, so it yielded only half to three-quarter tons per acre when harvested in mid-August. He believes the concentrated flavors in the grapes resulted in a more terroir-influenced profile that shows density and balance without over-ripe aromas and flavors. He also says he detests the “jam-ball style” Syrahs that are always high in alcohol and sugar.”

This tasty red is quite drinkable alone, but made to enhance a great New York steak or herb-crusted lamb chops grilled over flaming oak. Priced $24 retail, it’s a good value for Syrah from California’s newest hot spot for Rhone varietals.

Reviewed October 11, 2006 by Kathy Marcks-Hardesty.