The December 2007 issue of Wine and Spirits Magazine features ANIMALE 2005 Syrah:
"Animale 2005 Yakima Valley Syrah - From its name to its electric purple color, this wine is not exactly shy. It leads with a spicy mix of savory herbs, smoked pork and black currant, but it never goes to far. Its juicy black fruit melds with a tarry minerality that keeps the wine focused and limber. Put a pig on a spit and uncork this. [91 points]"
Wine Advocate Washington Wine reviewer Dr. Jay Miller penned very favorable notes on the ANIMALE 2005 Syrah, not long after release:
"The 2005 Syrah, sourced from two vineyards, is 100% varietal. This purple-colored wine offers up smoky, meaty, blueberry aromas leading to an uncomplicated but thick and rich, full-flavored wine that is seamless and hedonistically styled. Drink it over the next 5-7 years." [89 points]
"Wine Advisor" Paul Gregutt's Seattle Times article of June 20, 2007 included highly favorable commentary on the ANIMALE 2005 new releases, singling out the 2005 Syrah for special praise:
"From dreams and passion come these start-up standouts
"...This syrah is packed with flavor - black pepper, smoked ham, mushroom and fennel wrapped into the firm black fruits. It's a wine that keeps reaching out to you if you pay attention, and certainly should evolve nicely over the next six to eight years."
