"Strikingly singular and distinctive in style (I loved it), is the primordial 1999 Syrah Shell Creek. A hypothetical blend of an Italian Amarone and a full throttle Rhone Valley wine, this inky/purple-colored Syrah reveals notes of roasted espresso, blackberry liqueur, prunes, smoke, and vanilla, oodles of glycerin, and a dense, chewy, layered finish. This mouth-staining, heavyweight Syrah is not for everybody, but it is a compelling example of individual winemaking that should drink well for 10-12 years. Only 100 six-packs were produced, and even though this wine boasts 16.5% natural alcohol, it is not hot given its super concentration. It was aged 36 months in used French oak barrels (from Chateau Margaux). (93? points)"

Robert M. Parker, Jr.
The Wine Advocate
Issue 148
23 August 2003

"The 1999 Syrah Shell Creek Vineyard is among the most concentrated, dense, unctuously-textured Syrahs I have tasted from California over the last year. Some readers may find its "pedal to the metal," "balls to the walls" style excessive/extreme. While it is disjointed and not yet all together, it possesses an enormously rich, full-bodied, viscous personality with blockbuster levels of extract and richness. From the melted asphalt, crème de cassis, licorice, and pepper-like aromas and flavors, to the immense, full-bodied, high alcohol (16.5%) characteristics, it is an heroically-endowed, impressive but uncivilized Syrah that should age from 10-15 years. If it pulls itself together, it will offer compelling drinking. Fifty cases were produced. It is a risk, but I would take the gamble on this one. (90+ Points)"

Robert M. Parker, Jr.
The Wine Advocate
Issue 139
28 February 2002