Robert Biale Royal Punishers Petite Sirah 2005

by Ethan Johnson
August 23, 2008

I admit it: I am a fool for Petite Sirah. And since the grocery wine selection is limited to a scant few labels of this varietal, within reason I will jump at the chance to try another. Here's what a fool and his money were parted for:

Producer (Vineyard): Robert Biale Vineyards
Varietal (Grape type): Petite Sirah
Vintage (Year): 2005
Country: USA (California)
Color: Red
Cost: Expensive ($55 USD)

Teh booze

Swirl and Sniff: The color is inky black (purple). The scent was Al-CO-HOL. Over time, I think there was blueberry something-something, but phew.

Taste: Alcohol and puckery tannins at first, then plums and blueberries. The wine smoothed out as it sat.

Pairing: I drank this with an oniony burger wrapped in a low-carb tortilla. I knew the risks. The wine really added a smokiness to the onions. Interesting. I drank as little of the wine as possible over dinner to enjoy afterward.

Rating: When it comes to this wine, I would (and you may):

  • Buy three or more bottles for regular enjoyment
  • Buy a bottle or two for occasional enjoyment
  • Ask for when dining out or at a party
  • Settle for if your preferred wine is not available
  • Politely decline and never drink again, ever

Okay: I need to explain this rating. I probably need to add a line that says "don't buy this with your own money." This may sound harsh, but honestly, as an unpretentious wine reviewer, I'm not feeling compelled to spend $55 USD on this when I can get a perfectly acceptable PS for around $10. And lest the reader be misled, I did NOT spend $55 on this bottle. I got the half bottle for about $25, which is really pushing the limits of a single-bottle purchase for me.

Another confession: I don't decant my wines. I have a decanter, but only used it once or twice because I was told that certain wines must be decanted. Mmm, decanting didn't seem to accomplish much except warm the wine up to Texas Room Temperature (less than ideal). I must say, this wine probably needs to be decanted. But as the wine sat in the glass/bottle, it seemed to smooth over and be less harsh.

I just can't justify spending over $50 USD on this wine, let alone $15. Feel free to disagree. Preferably with someone else's money.

If you do give this a try, please let me know how your experience compared with mine. Thanks! <EM>

(The Totally Unpretentious Wine Reviews Index may be found here.)

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