2023 Syrah Brain Teaser

The 2023 Syrah Brain Teaser is muscular, powerful and deeply mineral, with exotic spice, purple flowers and layers of pepper intensity that resonate deeply. Extremely closed down today, the 2023 nonetheless boasts tremendous potential. The 73% new oak is out in front at this stage, but time should help ameliorate that. I look forward to tasting this as a finished wine. 
- Billy Norris (08/2025)

Last of the barrel samples, the 2023 Syrah Brain Teaser comes from the Bien Nacido, Stolpman, Rancho Boa Vista, and Sanger vineyards and is 77% Syrah and the balance Petite Sirah and Graciano. Its deep purple hue is followed by a riveting nose of blackberries, peppery, sappy, resinous herbs, and violets. With full-bodied richness and polished tannins, as well as a seamless, flawless overall profile on the palate, this absolutely brilliant barrel sample has perfection written all over it. (04/2025)

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2023 Brain Teaser Syrah bursts with flamboyant notes of blackberry pie, black cherry compote, and menthol, leading to an elegant perfume of lilacs, forest floor, and lavender. The full-bodied palate is plush and bright with floral -laced black fruit layers, framed by silky tannins and a lively line, finishing long and fragrant. The blend is 77% Syrah, 11.5% Petite Sirah, and 11.5% Graciano. 7% whole cluster was employed. The vineyard sources this year are Bien Nacido, Stolpman, Rancho Boa Vista, and Sanger. The wine was aged for 21 months in French oak, 73% new. 650 cases were made. (08/2025)

A deep, rich version, imbued with violet, bay leaf and marinated olive, with its core pumping out notes of peppery blackberry preserves and damson plum. A twinge of acidity cuts through everything and lifts the finish around polished tannins and late traces of savory and leather. Drink now through 2040. 650 cases made.
- Aaron Romano (05/2026)