It was my 13th day in a row working, it was Sunday, a few of us came in for pumpovers. No pep talk, no stretching, just hop on the pumps and get er' done.
We finished in 2 hours-which means its 5pm and I have about 1 hour to go tasting in Kenwood.
Eric, a CSJ vet, stopped in to show his sister and girlfriend the winery- they had already been tasting and suggested Enkidu.
I followed Eric’s advice, as I had little option otherwise, being in Kenwood at 5pm on Sunday.
I was the only one at the small tasting room, which is just lovely when the beauty pouring wines was young full of smiles and ready to talk wine.
We went through about 8 wines, some neat Syrah’s, nothing terribly noteworthy.However, all were quaff worthy.
I bought 2007 Humbaba Rhone Blend. The grapes are from Sonoma County, Lake County, and Napa County. 70% Syrah 30% Petite Syrah.
I tasted each of the Syrah’s from these three areas and each has a different style; Combined, it is even more interesting.
A Rhone Blend..? Im not so sure Syrah and Petite syrah qualifies as a true blend…The AOC in France would probably label this Cornas ( A northern Rhone region that produces only syrah)…in any event…the Humbaba is valiant California effort.
Smooth nose, with notes of blueberry, oak, tar, and grey poupon. The tannins are on the heavier side, as is the chewiness, the body is semi complex (pulling from the three different regions), the alcohol and sugar are well balanced. The syrah has a characteristically California feel with its larger body and heavier tannins…the balance is there, however compared to a true Rhone, the humbaba seems a little top heavy and not as tight…Think one night stand compared to a long relationship.
Humbaba is quick and easy and it is guaranteed to tickle and please, your lips will be stained the next day, just be sure wash before you go home!
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