2023 High Road
37% Syrah, 32% Grenache, 31 % Mourvèdre. The nose is compelling—full of earth and violets, with flashes of black fruit passing through. As it opens up, Hungarian shortbread enters the room, all butter and bramble fruit. The first sip reveals its stem inclusion, with notes of white pepper and dark fruits. Rich and suave, it has an athletic build and a sense of humor. James Berry Vineyard knocks it out of the park again! Drink 2025–2040
“A co-fermented blend of 37% Syrah, 32% Grenache and 31% Mourvèdre, the 2023 High Road James Berry Vineyard immediately displays the pedigree and multidimensionality of this vineyard, rendered here with the alluring, understated precision that runs through the roster. It opens on a dark, poised and delicate note, with its Syrah component taking the forefront, gradually unfolding with floral perfume and bright tinges of citrus. The palate is succulent, dense and tensile, remaining nimble yet persistent throughout the long, refined and mineral-inflected finish. This is a beautiful expression of a storied vineyard that shows off a darker, more brooding side of the style at Villa Creek.”
95 pts, Matthew Luczy, The Wine Advocate