Doug Powers

9.3

So, Barbara and Jim Richards (RIP) planted 5 acres back in 1991 (1990?) of Syrah on the northeast (downslope) corner of their Paloma vineyard on Spring Mountain in what visually looked like a “low spot” (partially shaded and also maybe an area that maybe occasionally got standing water back in the days when California got enough rain). The rest of the vineyard was of course Merlot and also some Cabernet Sauvignon used mostly for blending with their fantastic mountain Merlot. The vineyard is just east of Pride Mountain and across the road from what used to be (??) Schweiger Vineyards.

Anyway, Bob Foley, who was making the wines for Pride in those early days, was consulting for Barbara and Jim early on, but I have ZERO information as to what involvement he had with the Syrah, if I recall correctly, the first Syrah in 1995 was less than a barrel (12-15 cases), and was aged in a super OLD, neutral barrel. My Chicago friends, who knew the Richards, dragged me along to taste that fateful day. That 1995 Syrah, first wine they ever made from those young Syrah vines, was, frankly, eye-opening and FANTASTIC, as I told Jim Richards that day. After tasting the INCREDIBLE 1995 Syrah, which was so northern Rhône-like and so pure, I begged Jim to sell me a bottle or two, but he politely declined. Later that day, after tasting the rest of their great wines, as we were leaving, Jim GAVE me a 4-pack box of that 1995 Syrah, which he wouldn’t accept any $$$ for, and that 1995 Syrah still in my memory remains the GREATEST CA Syrah I’ve ever tasted!!

As you can probably tell, I adored Jim and Barbara Richards, amazing people and generous to a fault!! Amazing people!!! I don’t think I ever met their son, Sheldon, but from all accounts he is continuing the tradition of great Paloma wines, though that great Syrah vineyard was pulled out in the early 2000s — Sheldon, if you happen to see this post, I welcome any corrections if I got any details wrong!!

Oh, and this Syrah is pretty dang good as well!!! — 15 days ago

with Jim

Craig Mitchell

9.2

Enjoyed the subtle flavours and beaut balanced acid here… — 7 years ago

Scott Rapacki

9.1

He is Risen!!! — 8 months ago

with Adrienne

Tobin Trevarthen

9.7

Best wine of the day. Spring mountain special. Deep ruby. Chocolate. Blackberries, explosive black cherry. Just wow. — 5 years ago

Anna Sangiacomo

9.5

3 L. Bottle Spring Mountain Cabernet !!!Outstanding — 6 years ago

Andrew York

8.9

Really nice example of a cab franc. Light and delicious. — 7 years ago

Tobin Trevarthen

9.2

Schweiger’s top shelf Cab is worthy. Hedonistic mouth feel and finish. Stands up to any Spring Mountain Cab. Is perfect for a grilled ribeye. — 4 years ago

Tobin Trevarthen

8.9

This is a Merlot lovers Malbec. This is not your gritty tannic varietal. This is a nice smooth expression of red and black fruit twisting together with a swizzle in your glass. You will do a double take. — 4 years ago

Joni Brennan

9.5

Drank the 2000 in January 2018. Started spicy with dried black fruit then turned to sweet black fruit with a nougat/caramel richness. Amazing to see it evolve. Wish I had another one! — 7 years ago

Greg Fedorinchik

9.6

Really great Cab. Keeps getting better, the longer it's open. Nice subtle fruit, food spice, firm tannins. Wish I could get another ... but ... — 8 years ago