|
|
Wine Recommendation
Stephen Ross Wine Cellars
2005 Flying Cloud - Syrah Rosé(Paso Robles)
Flying Cloud is the value-priced label made by Steve Dooley, who makes several outstanding Pinot Noirs for his eponymous brand, Stephen Ross (Ross is his middle name).
I’m always on the lookout for great Rosés, and this pretty pink, dry blush wine is my new favorite. Not only is it one of the best dry Rosés I’ve tasted of this vintage, it’s a steal at $12 retail.
The wine is elegant and delectable, offering zingy aromas and flavors of ripe strawberry, tart Bing cherry, rhubarb and tangy cranberry. Made in the Provencal style Dooley prefers, its crisp acidity weaves with nuances of spice. The warm, moderate season in Paso Robles provided extra hang time, making this 50/50 blend of Syrahs from Huerhuero and Beck vineyards a beautiful marriage. Dooley’s excited about the latter site, a new vineyard in Creston at 1700-feet that he plans to feature more next vintage.
This Rosé is a great choice for picnics or just a summertime quaffer, especially so with this year’s hot summer days.
Reviewed August 11, 2006 by Kathy Marcks-Hardesty.
The Wine
Winery: Stephen Ross Wine Cellars |
The Reviewer
Kathy Marcks-Hardesty
Kathy Marcks Hardesty is the former Tasting Coordinator for Wine Spectator magazine. She prefers wines that exhibit classic varietal characteristics, regional identity, and the depth and balance to make a good meal great. She’s just as enthusiastic about sharing news of those rare, value-priced wines of good quality. Despite her past association with wine critics, she doesn’t assign numbers to wines, save in her memory (old habits die hard). She prefers writing descriptive reviews that whet the palate and leaves the final score to her readers. |