2007 Red Car "Cuvée 22" Sonoma County Syrah

Glass-staining purple. A brooding bouquet of cassis, kirsch and blood sausage is enlivened by fresh violet and cracked pepper. Midweight red and dark berry compote flavors stain the palate, with dusty tannins providing shape. The peppery note repeats on the finish, which is tightly focused and impressively persistent. I'd give this a few years in the cellar, but there'd be no crime in drinking it now. (ST)