I've always liked Durif, but hadn't realised (or remembered) until recently that it is the same variety as California's Petite Sirah, which I've always liked too (makes sense).
Morris' 2001 Rutherglen Durif shows a nose of very ripe damson; with both sweetness and a VA-like sour fruit note that makes the fruit profile more interesting. Aromas of BBQed meat, warm briar patch, and a kind of aromatic lift of a spearmint/pine resin nature are also present. The palate is soft, with firm fine textured tannins, flavours of prune and dusty earth, and good acidity. This Ruthergelin Durif is only 14% which is nice. Compared to a Californian like EOS's Petite Sirah (Paso Robles) the fruit is perhaps less directly sweet and the palate less alcoholically viscous.
I love this variety's inky dark fruit flavours, fresh streak of acidity and chewy tannins; I'll be seeking out more.