14.2 % Alcohol
Tasted 2015-02-14

One of the amazing Syrahs from Steve Law: 2011 "Stagecoach Vineyards"
Medium to deep purple red. Intensive aromas of freshly picked blackberries, morello cherries, licorice and a touch of dark chocolate with chilli scent. Intensive, young and wild. Definitely a reflection of winemaker Steve Law. On the palate the cherries and the chocolate are dominating. A little bit silky with the sour touch of the cherries. If you drink this wine you simply think "Red". Very long finish. Extremely good.
In October 2014 we walked around Sonoma Plaza and found the MacLaren tasting lounge. Nearly 90 minutes later I was totally convinced that I found the sleeper of my trip. All cool climate Syrahs I tasted had a fantastic quality and the philosophy of winemaker Steve Law - he poured this day - is simple but remarkable: "You don't need high alcohol to produce big flavour." The "Stagecoach Vineyards" Syrah with its 14.2 % is the wine with the highest alcohol in Steve's portfolio. All others are far below 14 %. For me the wines from MacLaren are clear recommendations if you are a syrah lover. But if you visit the cozy tasting room, try also the Sauvignon Blanc. Even if Steve's whole passion is Syrah, he has to also produce a Sauvignon Blanc. His mother asked him to do so...
When I drunk this wonderful wine it came immediately to my mind that this would be a great partner for African chicken food. Perhaps a not too spicy harissa chicken? I believe this wine will have a long life. 10 years+?