Retro Cellars Howell Mountain Syrah 2016 Rated 94JD

Jeb Dunnuck Review
Rated 94
The 2016 Syrah Howell Mountain is still a youthful ruby/plum hue and has an attractive nose of ripe blackberries, peppery herbs, damp earth, and candied violets. It's beautifully textured, medium-bodied, has integrated acidity, and a great finish. This complex, nuanced, elegant, Cornas-like beauty has another decade of prime drinking. Drink 2025-2035.

Retro Cellars Howell Mountain Syrah 2016 750ml

Bold. Mountain-born. A Syrah with power and poise.
The 2016 Retro Cellars Howell Mountain Syrah is a small-production wine crafted from rugged mountain vineyards in Napa Valley's Howell Mountain AVA. Known for its intensity and structure, this Syrah delivers dark fruit, spice, and savory complexity, reflecting the high-elevation terroir and meticulous winemaking of Retro Cellars.

• Producer: Retro Cellars
• Region: Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California
• Varietal: Syrah
• ABV: ~14.5%
• Volume: 750ml
• Style: Bold, structured, and age-worthy
• Production: Limited release, artisanal winemaking

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Blackberry, blueberry, smoked meat, black pepper, and hints of violet.
Palate: Concentrated dark fruit, espresso, olive tapenade, and savory spice with firm tannins.
Finish: Long, powerful, and layered with oak, mineral, and earthy undertones.

Why You'll Love It

• Classic Howell Mountain Syrah with bold fruit and structure
• Small-production, handcrafted wine with limited availability
• Perfect for cellaring or pairing with robust cuisine
• Captures the rugged terroir of Napa's mountain vineyards

Food Pairing

• Grilled ribeye or venison
• Smoked brisket or BBQ short ribs
• Hearty stews with root vegetables
• Aged cheeses like Manchego or Gouda

Cellaring

• Drinking Window: 2025-2035
• Storage: Ideal at 55°F with proper humidity

Retro Cellars Howell Mountain Syrah 2016 is a powerful, savory red that embodies the mountain spirit - perfect for collectors and lovers of bold Napa Valley wines.