Description

96+ points Wine Advocate! The 2021 Backlit is an effortlessly balanced, expressive blend of 50% Syrah, 17% Mourvèdre, 17% Grenache and 16% Carignan. Matured for 20 months in 33% new French oak, its oak spice is already well integrated into a core of cassis fruit on the nose, and it offers continually blossoming accents of iron, prosciutto, milk chocolate and thyme. The full-bodied palate is concentrated yet not over the top in terms of ripeness. It has a support of chalky tannins, energetic acidity and a very long finish laced with pure violet tones. It will be long lived in the cellar. Drink 2025-2045.

95-97 points Vinous! Pretty black raspberry, savory herbs and dusty rose form a compelling bouquet as the 2021 Backlit blossoms in the glass. This is velvety in feel, with juicy red and black fruits. A core of vibrant acidity maintains tremendous energy. It finishes perfumed, leaving blue and violet inner florals that linger over a coating of primary concentration. There’s a beautiful harmony here, and while the 2021 will likely be highly pleasurable right out of the gate, it will also excel in the cellar.

95 points Jeb Dunnuck! A more Syrah-dominated effort, the 2021 Backlit is a blend of 50% Syrah and the rest nearly equal parts Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Carignan. Ripe darker berries, peppery herbs, violets, and exotic floral notes all define this beauty, and it’s medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a layered, concentrated mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish.