"Opaque with dark purple tears, the 2018 Syrah Boushey Vineyard Arnaut is massive and dense with a black-fruited core and mineral essence, with a black peppercorn-spiced heart. The expression feels condensed, compact and intense. Full-bodied, the palate is weighted and chewy with a dense, dark mouthfeel, gripping tannins and fruit expression verging on stewed, almost syrupy. With a balanced structure and elevated tannic backbone, the wine ends inky and black-fruited with a high-octane finish, presenting elevated alcohol. This Syrah is begging for a massive juicy, rare steak. - Anthony Mueller"
-Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (October 2020), 92 pts
"Bright ruby. Aromatic nose combines blackberry, violet and black pepper; darker than the Justine blend. Fine-grained, tightly wound, juicy and very concentrated yet smooth from the start. Highly concentrated dark berry, spice, pepper and violet flavors could benefit from another year or two to meld--or give this wine some time in a decanter. This structured but smooth Syrah finishes with firm-edged dusty tannins, subtle sweetness and excellent length. (aged in 15% new French oak; made from vines planted in 1996 and 1994) - Stephen Tanzer"
"Tasting like the essence of Syrah with its smoky, meaty, bacon fat nuances, the 2018 Syrah Arnaut Boushey Vineyard is medium to full-bodied, has a pure, balanced mouthfeel, plenty of building tannins, and a great, great finish. My money is on this being up with the top Syrahs in the vintage."
"This is the winery's 10th vintage from this esteemed vineyard, and it's glorious. The aromas erupt from the glass, with notes of blueberry, huckleberry, iron, earth and bacon fat. The palate is chock-full of layer upon layer of textured blue and black fruit flavors along with plentiful herb accents. The finish sails off into the distance. It's flat-out delicious. Give it some time in the cellar to see it at its best. It will have a long life ahead of it. Best after 2026. SEAN P. SULLIVAN"
"Tightly wound at this point, with a broad-shouldered structure and dense black cherry, savory anise and white pepper flavors that finish with medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2030. 365 cases made. - Tim Fish"
"Licorice, chocolate orange, nutmeg, raspberries and vanilla on the nose. It’s full-bodied with soft, juicy black fruit and spice accompanied by velvety tannins. Creamy, ripe and plush with a lengthy finish. Drink or hold.h"