Top Values: California Syrah

2006 and 2007 are great years for these Golden State Rhône reds

James Laube
Posted: March 26, 2009

California Syrah keeps getting better—and its ranks deeper. Following the very fine 2005 and 2004 vintages, this Rhône Valley transplant hit the jackpot again in 2006, the best vintage for the varietal so far, with dozens of sensational wines. And there's more good news: 2007 looks to be a banner year as well.

In all four vintages, Syrah grapes thrived whether grown in warmer inland climates, cooler coastal sites or mountain locales. All of the variety's major appellations—Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles and Santa Barbara—excelled. And the overall quality extends to smaller districts such as Edna Valley, Mendocino and Santa Lucia Highlands as well. Though these areas don't produce the same volume as some of the other regions, their wines can be off-the-charts good.

Perhaps best of all, the number of Syrah producers continues to grow, with many new stars (see 10 Emerging California Rhône Producers) and many well-priced wines to discover. Many sell for a third to half of what you'd pay for Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon of comparable quality.

For our full report in the March 31, 2009, issue of Wine Spectator, we tasted nearly 375 newly released Syrahs, with 148 of them achieving outstanding quality (90 or more points). WineSpectator.com members can use our Top Values tool to find great buys from that list: More than 60 wines that cost between $12 and $35 and rated 87 points or higher.

View the full list of California Syrah Top Values.