Since the 2000 vintage we’ve crafted 2 Syrahs, one exclusively from Red Mountain fruit, the other from Yakima Valley. Over the years they’ve maintained their identities: the silken, plush version from the cooler Yakima Valley and the sturdy, powerful and complex Syrah from the warmer, earlier harvested Red Mountain. So this is our next step, our "Chapter 3", hence the name in French, Chapitre 3.

Four barrels from our various lots, Williams (50%), Boushey (38%) and Ciel du Cheval (12%), came together in an unique expression of Syrah, sort of a morph between our other two styles, but reflecting the extraordinary dimension of the 2005 vintage. The deep black color hints at the concentration that follows. Deep, almost brooding black fruit, with notes of black cherry, blueberry and smoke fill the aroma. It tugs at the palate with a combination of expansion and precision: full, lush and rich, yet sturdy and youthful.

This Syrah demands age. The boldness of the fruit and richness of the tannins will reward many years of cellaring. This is a first for us so I can’t exactly predict a prime drinking age, but 5-12 years will not challenge this wine’s pleasure. Go ahead and try a bottle now as there’s abundant pleasure, but know that the 2005 Syrah Chapitre 3 will grow and develop for years to come. This wine is a first for us and will only be made in exceptional vintages.

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• 100% Syrah

Aging Profile:

• Best from 2005 through 2017
• Serve cool, 60-62°F

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

• 50% Kiona Vineyard, Red Mountain
• 38% Boushey Vineyard, Yakima Valley
• 12% Ciel du Cheval, Red Mountain