Montes Alpha Syrah 2006

From the Colchagua Valley and the Apalta Vineyard in Chile, the Montes Alpha Syrah is 90% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Viognier. The Viognier adds a floral note, while the Cab gives a bit of structure. That said, this is still Syrah. And I like Syrah. This one had some tar, some spice, and the floral components previously mentioned on the nose, as well as an earthiness, though this wasn't pronounced. The mouth-weight was light, it was balanced, and had some spice as well as dark fruits. It was not a big, fruit forward flavor. Elegant, nice, good Syrah. About $21, which makes it an excellent buy. It gets 91 from both the Advocate and Wine Spectator. I like it, but I liked others I had in comparison better - of course each of the others was at least twice the price. Tasted February 13, 2009.