Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
The 2001 Ventriloquist is a blend of 82% Grenache and 18% Syrah. Sixty percent of the fruit came from the Alban Vineyard, 32% from the Stolpman Vineyard, and 8% from the Shadow Canyon Vineyard. There are approximately 400 cases of this nectar. While it may not hit the surreal prodigiousness of the 2000 Incognito, it is a spectacular effort from a cooler growing season. It boasts a saturated purple color as well as beautiful aromatics of red and black fruits, with hints of licorice, earth, and spice in the background. There is great purity, more austere tannin in the finish than most Krankl wines, gorgeous depth and texture, and a finish that lasts 45+ seconds. Give it 1-3 years of cellaring, and enjoy it over the following 12-15.
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