93 Points James Suckling
A rich, textured red that goes deep and dark in blueberries, chocolate and spearmint, with full but fine-grained tannins. So concentrated and mouth-filling, it has grip on the palate, plus the generous fruit flavors to counter it.
91-93 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Tasted as a tank sample prior to bottling, the 2024 Petite Sirah Royal Punishers looks to be another fine example of this cuvée, which is largely based on Rutherford-grown fruit from the Gamble family. Black cherries, licorice and blueberries abound on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate features plentiful but silky-textured tannins, followed by a long, mouthwatering finish.
93 Points Owen Bargreen
The delicious and powerful 2024 ‘Royal Punishers’ is dark in the glass, offering aromatics of Asian spice and black tea on the nose alongside dense dark and blue fruits. The palate mirrors the nose, with concentrated blue fruits alongside stony accents and a graphite edge.
92 Points Wine Spectator
Markedly fresh and elegant up front, with hibiscus and pomegranate accents that give way to richer tones of dark chocolate–laced cherry and plum. Subtle herbal tea nuances swirl in, and the finish shows good length, with integrated tannins.
92 Points Vinous
Markedly fresh and elegant up front, with hibiscus and pomegranate accents that give way to richer tones of dark chocolate–laced cherry and plum. Subtle herbal tea nuances swirl in, and the finish shows good length, with integrated tannins.
Winemaker Notes
Aromas of blackberry, pastry, coffee, and cardamom on the nose. Driven on thepalate with flavors of clove, black plum, fig preserves, and wet slate. Elegant,mouth coating tannins frame this wonderfully complex Napa Valley Petite Sirah.
