Vina Robles 2008 Estate Petite Sirah, Jardine Vineyard, Paso Robles

I picked up this bottle at Corks for a virtual tasting with Petite Sirah being the focus. I had only one Petite Sirah in the cellar, but had emptied it several weeks before. I let my wife walk the dog while I scooted to the wine shop.
I was tempted to purchase a close-out Petite Sirah for under $10, but decided to “live large” with this bottle for $25. Good choice!
This is a dark and delicious wine that made an impression. Paso Robles is a great wine region known mostly for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel – but this bottle shows that it can be a beacon for Petite Sirah also.
Petite Sirah offers a sense of mystery. The name refers to the small size of the grapes. It’s relationship with Syrah has been on-and-off for years. Originally thought to be related to Syrah, that theory fell into disrepute. More recent DNA testing shows that it is indeed related.  Fans of Petite Sirah enjoy its full-bodied flavor.
The Vina Robles PS is inky dark with deep rich flavors of berry and spice. Oh yes, it is loaded with tannins – making it a huge wine, but one that still has silken edges.
The wine comes from three different vineyards: Jardine, Penman and Creston Valley and each contributes to the party. Malolactic fermentation is used to impart the full, smooth body. It is aged for 16 months in French oak, and the wine has a delightful swirls of toasted oak.

Technorati Tags: wine,Petite Sirah,Paso Robles

Rating: 4 of 5  Value: 3.5 of 5

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