Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Syrah 2011, Cayuga Lake, New York

Tasting Note: This syrah will make you excited about the prospect of experiencing more New York Finger Lake syrah which is not widely grown in this cool-climate area.

Deep-intensity ruby in color with some garnet along the edges, this wine has an aromatic nose of wild, red-and-black fruit including raspberry, black plum, black currant, violet and forest floor.

Aromas are evocative of Northern Rhône fruit.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus bodied syrah is smooth in texture with ripe, well-integrated, medium-plus tannin.

Aromas on the nose continue as flavors.

There is balance between the fruit and tannin structure along with mid-palate complexity that ultimately completes with a medium-plus finish.

Bottle Note: Rich plum, vanilla and spice followed by polished tannins. Years ago a gentleman was stumbling home after a night of faster horses, younger women, and older wine. Suddenly, a 4-foot-6-inch owl landed in his path. The owl said, “I have a deal for you. If you share your fine wine with me, I won’t interfere with you faster horses or younger women. In fact, I am so thirsty, I will also protect your vineyards from birds and critters.” The gentleman agreed. To this day, the owl can be seen proudly guarding the vineyards while savoring the best wines in New York.