Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2008 The Governor Syrah is youthfully restrained and a little reduced to begin, giving way to aromas of warm blackberries, crushed blueberries over dark chocolate, earth, tar and a whiff of vanilla. Full bodied and concentrated with taut, muscular fruit, it has a solid foundation of medium to firm level fine-grained tannins and crisp acid, finishing long. Consider drinking it 2013 to 2021+.

Opaque ruby. Cherry-vanilla and floral aromas are complemented by notes of woodsmoke, licorice and mocha. Deeply pitched dark berry flavors show impressive energy and lift, picking up black pepper and fruitcake nuances with air. Smooth and broad on a persistent finish featuring notes of smoke and blue fruit.