October 2004
90 points, Kingston Family Syrah Casablanca Valley Bayo Oscuro 2003, $28 "Since the mid-'90s, when syrah started to make its way in Chile, most of it has been growing in warm sites. Now, new ventures like this Kingston Family wine, grown in western Casablanca, are proving that the Pacific's cold influence can create superb syrahs. Bayo Oscuro has been crafted from vines planted on the steepest, most sun-exposed site in the vineyard. Even so, cold ocean breezes delayed the '03 harvest to the beginning of May and transformed the fruit into a fresh, juicy and round syrah. Its vibrant acidity, firm tannins, and strawberry jam flavor give a clear sense of place."
88 points, Kingston Family Pinot Noir Casablanca Valley Alazan 2003 $28 "From the western reaches of the Casablanca valley, facing the Pacific Ocean, this vineyard's cool-climate pinot noir packs a lot of red fruit. Crisp and young, the wine delivers generous raspberry and cherry aromas, all together in a juicy texture."