So many factors combine to make this wine extraordinary.  The old block Syrah (oldest in Washington), the steep slope due south to uninhibited sunshine, the pre-Missoula Flood sandstone soil, and the precision and care in the vineyard by the Sauer Family at Red Willow Vineyard come together to form a unique Syrah expression.

With 2008 we realized we could treat the small, thick skinned berries more aggressively in the cellar, pulling out even more “stuffing” than we did with 2007. This is the blackest and most opaque of our Syrahs in 2008. It’s thick and broad, a massive combination of blackberry, blueberry, earth, meat and leather aromas. Same on the palate, yet with a plump, mouth-filling suppleness. This is the one to cellar long term, if you can keep your hands off it.

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• 100% Syrah

Barrel Program:

• 12 months 100% French Oak barrels, 50% new oak, 50% one fill

Aging Profile:

• Serve cool, 60-62°F
• Best from 2012 through ???

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

• 100% Red Willow Vineyard, west end of the Yakima Valley