Shafer Vineyards Syrah Relentless 2015 (750ML)

95+ WA / 95 JD / 94 WE / 93 VM / 93 WS

Blended of 90% Syrah and 10% Petite Sirah, the deep purple-black colored 2015 Relentless has a total rock-star nose of flamboyant blackberry pie, plum preserves, mulberries and licorice scents with hints of Sichuan pepper, hoisin, Indian spices and smoked meats plus a waft of raspberry leaves. Very big, rich, full and decadently fruited in the mouth, the palate packs in black fruits and exotic spices layers with a firm, rounded tannin frame and just enough freshness to carry off the long, opulent finish. - Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate

The saturated purple-colored 2015 Relentless is a Syrah-dominated blend that includes 10% Petite Sirah. This cuvée was first made in 1999 and the Syrah comes from a site in the hills above Oakville Knoll. Boasting terrific, full-throttle notes of black fruits, violets, and tapenade, it shows surprising elegance and purity on the palate, has fine, silky tannins, and superb balance. It’s a brilliant wine that has both power and elegance. Drink it over the coming decade.-Jeb Dunnuck

This blend of 90% Syrah and 10% Petite Sirah is a forceful, powerful knockout, delivering tones of turned earth, wild game and nutmeg. Full bodied and robust, it layers velvety smoothness around a mouthfilling, grippy core of bright black fruit that's rich and highly rewarding. - Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast

Time has done wonders for the 2015 Relentless, especially in softening some of the tannins that were so imposing last year. A powerful, rich wine, the 2015 possesses terrific fruit intensity and overall energy. Cherry jam and pomegranate fruit character give the 2015 its decidedly red-fruited profile. The 2015 is not as complex or nuanced as other vintages have been, but it is absolutely delicious and a real pleasure to taste. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Rich and deeply structured, with powerfully built blackberry, river stone and smoky pepper beef flavors that take on potency toward refined tannins. Syrah and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2024-Tim Fish, Wine Spectator