"The 2001 Syrah Petite Rousse, Clos Mimi's second label, exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of scorched earth, black fruits, tar, and a hint of truffle. Chewy, medium to full-bodied, supple, and monochromatic on the palate and in the finish, it will drink well for 5-6 years. (87 points)"

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

MY 2002 TOP 20 WINES
"What a discovery! Tim and Mimi Spear produce an immensely affordable 100% Syrah called 'petite rousse' (little red head). There is nothing little about this wine. The color is saturated, inky purple with a mantle of aromas that are focused on deep richness after breathing for 10 minutes. The palate has a nice feel to it with a firm backbone to the well-focused flavors. Buy cases for everyday drinking. (18.5/20 points)"

Doug Wilder
Dean & Deluca
Saint Helena
January 2003

"Bright ruby-red. Raspberry, bacon fat and an exotic citrus suggestion on the nose. Fresh, sweet flavors of red berries and spices, enlivened by ripe acids. Finishes with dusty, even tannins and good length. Very easy to drink and food-friendly. For the past few years, Clos Mimi has produced superconcentrated but heavily extracted Syrahs that have attracted admirers... This much lighter wine, made from less expensive grapes, aged in used French barrels, and priced at a fraction of this producer's La-La (as in Guigal) wanabees, is an infinitely more pleasing and balanced wine. Don't be surprised if this strategy becomes a trend in California over the coming years. (88 points)"

Steve Tanzer
International Wine Cellar
Issue105
November/December 2002

"Those of our customers who have not bought Clos Mimi, the massive Syrah fashioned by Tim Spear, will want to try Tim's new wine toute de suite. We think this extremely talented winemaker has made what may be the definitive Syrah at this price point. Petite Rousse is nearly black in color, with a big, meaty nose accented by pepper and soy. The rich, velvety flavors echo the brilliant bouquet. We received our initial shipment of this wine last month, and 20 cases were gone virtually overnight. The most heard comment: "Oh, my, this is a lot of wine for the money!"

Mark Estrin
The Wine House
Los Angeles
October/November 2002