Denner “Dirt Worshipper” Paso Robles Syrah 2021

98 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
A more Syrah-dominated release, the 2021 Dirt Worshipper is textbook Syrah magic with is peppery, gamey dark fruits, iron, tapenade, sandalwood, and violet-laced aromas and flavors. It’s rich, medium to full-bodied, has a concentrated, layered mouthfeel, and a great finish. Based on 88% Syrah, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Graciano, and 1% Viognier that was fermented with 40% whole clusters and aged 20 months in 25% new French and Hungarian oak, it will probably merit a triple-digit rating in 4-5 years, and I’d be happy to put this up with the best Syrahs out there.

97 Points, James Suckling
Potent and peppery, this blend of syrah from distinct vineyards in the central coast of California is haunting, earthy, smoky and mysterious. It offers grilled meat, black pepper, green peppercorn, espresso and star anise components that are fascinating and complex. 30% new oak is enhanced by a portion of Kadar Hungarian oak barrels. With 7% petit verdot, 4% graciano and 1% viognier. Best from 2028.

96 Points, Vinous
The 2021 Dirt Worshipper is impossible to ignore, blending incense with dried roses, white pepper and exotic spice. This impresses with its elegance and grace, washing across the palate with silken textures and ripe red and black fruits as a wave of juicy acidity adds lift. Violet inner florals resonate throughout. It tapers off spicy and incredibly long, embraced by a coating of fine-grained tannins that tug at the senses as a resonance of clove lingers on. Simply spellbinding, this is unmistakably New World fruit, yet with an Old Word soul.