Syrah La Serenne’s character in 2012 reinforces the loose axiom: cooler sites produce their finest wines in warm vintages; think of Mosel Rieslings or Cote Rotie Syrahs, both cooler than other nearby appellations, and how they shine in warm vintages.  So too with the higher altitude, cooler-temperature Boushey Vineyard, for 13 vintages the sole source for La Serenne.  The vineyard made great use of the warm late July and August, yielding small berries with thick skins, providing extraordinary density and richness.  Supple and fleshy are hallmarks of this vineyard in any vintage, butin 2012 pack on more textural breadth, and add more of Syrah’s  wildness, a meaty, spicy, earthy nuance.  It’s inky black, with dark plums, creamy black fruits, generous smoke and anise, and yet it still retains its cool site vitality.  Don’t be deceived by its supple tannins and juicy approachability: this is one that will live a long life in the cellar.

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• 100% Syrah

Aging Profile:

• Best from 2016 through 2023+
• Serve cool, 60-62°F

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

Boushey Vineyard, mid Yakima Valley

Acclaim

Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate, 96

".. As for the Syrah-driven wines, they do two main cuvees, one focusing on Boushey Vineyard, the La Serenne, and the other on Red Mountain, the La Cote Rousse. The 2012 Syrah La Serenne is a 100% Syrah that was aged in 50% new French oak prior to bottling. I think the greatest vintage of this cuvee to date, it boasts an incredibly inky purple color to go with notions of creme de cassis, damp earth, graphite, smoke and licorice that flow to a full-bodied, voluptuously textured profile on the palate. Despite all of the richness, it stays thrillingly focused and shows the purity and elegance of the site. Enjoy it anytime over the coming 10-15 years."