I was awaiting Denise's arrival at Sushi Dan the other night, and as I perused the wine list an old friend popped up - Cycles Gladiator Syrah. Denise had discovered this one for us at one of Wally's Tent Sales a while back. I liked it then, and I hoped I'd like it this time, too. I suspect it is the 2008 vintage they are serving at the restaurant, but I failed to check on that.
This wine from the Hahn Estate of Soledad, CA, takes its name from an old French bicycle company. The whole crew is apparently bicycle-crazy.
The wine sits ruby-red in the glass and smells of dark fruit and pepper. Blackberry and cassis greet the palate with notes of chocolate and a little white pepper. It's pretty smooth, but it has a nice acidity. The finish is a little off - a slightly medicinal edge crept in faintly. The fruit rocks while it's in the mouth, though. It's a very tasty wine for the price.
Variety: Syrah
Appellation: California > Central Coast
Price: $10
Acquisition disclaimer: Purchased by the author
