Sequel Bin 898

The ambition of a grand vin is apparent from the get-go with oak that’s dialed right up in the scheme of things. The fruit rises nicely with plenty of spicy dark plums and blackberries on offer.

Brooding medium ruby. Wild, musky scents of black and blueberry, roasted meats, resiny herbs, olive tapenade and tarry oak. Dense, plush, broad and rather powerful, but showing less early sweetness than the "regular" 2014 Sequel Syrah did a year ago. There's very concentrated dark fruit here but the wine is currently dominated by it's oak element, which blocks its aromatic topnotes. Spreads out impressively to coat the entire palate, with the tannins coating the front teeth. This Syrah clearly needs patience, but will it ever display the fruit personality of the basic bottling? Aeration brought more dark fruit verve but their tannins maintained their grip. (Reviewed November 2018)

The 2015 Sequel Vintage Select Bin 898 has a dark core with a concentration that is skillful and carefully created, framing blackberries, dusty plum and black raspberries. The oak structure on the medium to full-bodied palate is clean and focused with an elegance that shines through with soft tart red cherry flavors. The wine ends with complexity and a structured, lingering finish that is both bold and elegant, capturing the essence of oak tones with a soft floral spice on the aftertaste. Only 137 cases were produced.

The late-release 2015 Sequel Vintage Select Bin 898 reveals plenty of nice dark fruits alongside tar, tobacco leaf and coffee ground flavors. Enjoy this beautifully evolved wine over the next 10 years.