Readers of this web site know how much I enjoyed the 2003 Sauvage by St. Helena Winery, which was the featured Wine of the Week several weeks ago.  Sympa is, essentially, the reserve offering from the same winery.  The winemaker for Sympa is Peter Story, father of Kristian Story who made the Sauvage wine.  The grapes for the 2 wines are from different blocks within the same vineyard.

As one might expect from 2 wines made by the same family from grapes of similar terroir, there is a strong family resemblace amongst these 2 wines.  If one were to taste the two wines blindly in a line-up, it would be easy to spot the big brother-little brother relationship here.  If you liked the Sauvage, you will love the Sympa.

The Sympa is a powerful California cab, front loaded with explosive fruit.  The black fruit jumps out of the bouquet as the dominant scent, followed by a little spice and tobacco.  On the palate, the fruit also takes center stage, as one expects from a first rate California cab made from perfectly ripe fruit.  No bitterness, no green flavors, just pure California ultra-ripe flavors.  The longer one savors this wine, the more one appreciates the differnt layers of fruit nuances that dance on the palate.  Blackberry first, then blueberry, then black currant and a hint of anise before you realize it.  The finish is smooth, pleasant, and long.  Although the wine is young (2003 vintage tasted in spring of 2006), the tannins are well integrated.  Those with cellars will be richly rewarded for ageing this wine, as there is ample fruit to hold up for a number of years.  Those without cellars will enjoy this hedonistic gem right now.

4.75 stars.

I have not yet seen the wine at San Diego retailers, although I am told that it might be carried by the WineSellar.  It can be purchased directly from the winery or their website, StHelenaWinery.com.

 

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