Shawn Shai Halahmy is a pal, and like other winemaking pals, I forget what came first, a love for their wine that developed into a friendship, or if we became friends before I tried his wine. Actually, I’m going with the former…wine does make the heart grow fonder, eh?
Shai Cellars
08 Adome
Santa Ynez Valley
65% Syrah, 35 % Cabernet Sauvignon
14.6% alcohol
230 Cases
Starting from notes on the appearance, the cork was in good condition, clean, lots of legs danced on my glass, with a dark ruby color tipped in pale magenta. The aromas I detected ran the gamut with a blast of rich plums, cherry and a hint of raspberry through to black pepper and mild astringency. Once the wine hit my mouth I got beautiful, dark, balanced fruit, tannins, enough jamminess to spread on toast or serve with dark chocolate, steak or a burger. Ending with taste bud-loving spice on the back palate and a mid-length finish. Drink now, drink later, whatever, just drink it.
90 Eve Points…was my first thought but with 91 points from The Tasting Panel Magazine in their December 2010 issue, who am I to argue? Love the mag, love the wine, not a problem there. 91 Eve Loving Points.
So what’s next for Shawn:
Yes, exciting news from Shai Cellars…
In June of 2010 I bottled my 2nd vintage of wines. Yes wine(s)… My 2009 Adome, same blend as the 08, though a different wine, and maybe better in some ways than the 08. I’m going to wait a bit to release this. It can use some time in the bottle. (225 cases)
And a new wine, my 09 Grenache. Only 100 cases produced of this delicious wine. Great fruit, great balance, and with the right food it’s like bliss in your mouth. Available now.
Contact me direct to get your hands on some Shai…
