2013 Syrah Clary Ranch

There is a lot to like in these new releases from Duncan Arnot and Nathan Roberts. The 2013 Chardonnays capture all of the energy and precision of the vintage. I found the 2013 Pinots a bit tighter than they were last year, most likely the temporary effects of bottling. Arnot-Roberts fans will see a new Syrah bottling, from the Que Syrah Vineyard as well as a new Cabernet Sauvignon from Montecillo that replaces the Bugay. Over the last few years, Arnot-Roberts have added quite a few sources from the Santa Cruz Mountains, making the range quite diverse. Next to many other producers who like to pick on the early side, Arnot-Roberts comes across as closer to the middle of the road in style. Nowhere is that more evident than in the Cabernets, wines that strike a compelling balance of ripeness and structure. In short, this range is full of highlights. Pricing remains exceedingly fair considering the quality of what goes in the bottle. The only problem is finding the wines, as production is tiny. Still, it is always a thrill when my small allocation shows up. I can only imagine many readers feel the same way.