2011 Shafer Relentless (Syrah/Petite Syrah)

The 2011 Syrah Relentless is certainly one of the lighter versions of this wine, but still merits an outstanding 92-point rating. A blend of 91% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah, this wine shows more of a French style than other vintages because there is a hint of austerity and structural tannin that can be noticed through the roasted herbs, meaty blackberry and blackcurrant flavors and hints of blueberry and lavender. This is spicy, earthy, medium to full-bodied and probably will be the easiest and quickest to mature fully of any vintage of Relentless to date. Consume it over the next decade. 92 points