Robert Parker score 98/100
The Hated Hunter Syrah cuvée is composed of 82.4% Syrah, 5.2% Mourvèdre, 7.8% Petite Sirah, 2% Grenache, 1.2% Petit Manseng and 1.4% Viognier which was fermented with 26% whole clusters. This wine is a blend of different plots from the estate: 32% Eleven Confessions, 41% The Third Twin, 25% Cumulus and 2% Molly Aida. It was aged for approximately 23 months in French oak barrels, 59% of which were new.
Deep garnet-black, the nose slowly unfolds to offer a vast array of savory, earthy, meaty notes: pepper salami , black olives , graphite , wild sage , plums , Morello cherries , blackberries , menthol , tobacco leaf , Asian spices and star anise . Full-bodied, the palate reveals surprising elegance, ease and restraint, offering a spicy mid-palate and seductive texture, finishing with earthy and minty nuances.
1,821 cases and 600 magnums were produced. "The Hated Hunter" features on the label an old black and white photo of Manfred Krankl's grandfather in hunting gear, posing with his rifle and his dog.