The 2018 Syrah impresses for its precision and nuance. There is plenty of the textural richness readers have come to expect from Pride, but that is balanced by striking aromatic definition and presence. Floral accents, dried herbs, mint, blood orange and sage add brightness to a core of red/purplish berry fruit. Give the tannins a year or so to soften.

Coming entirely from Sonoma County, the 2018 Syrah is a blend of 95% Syrah, 3% Viognier and 2% Grenache. Medium garnet-purple colored, it bursts from the glass with bold notes of black cherries, fresh black plums and ripe blackberries plus hints of tar, licorice, bouquet garni and fertile loam. A gentle black pepper character contributes to the crunchy black fruits on the medium to full-bodied palate, framed by rounded tannins and bold freshness, finishing spicy. 

The 2018 Syrah shows the cooler nature of the vintage, with bright, juicy, yet savory notes of red and darker berry fruits intermixed with plenty of peppery herbs and floral notes. These carry to a medium-bodied, elegant Syrah with nicely integrated acidity, ripe tannins, and a clean, balanced style that's going to evolve for 7-8 years.

A tighter, firmer version of Syrah, it comes with very solid but not especially opulent fruit, and it relies on notes of game and soil to rise into the two-star ranks. But rise it does for range and out-and-out ageworthiness despite not having massive tannin. This wine deserves to be put away in a dark place for a half-decade at the very least, and we would not be surpirsed if it holds onto its vigor for twice that long.