2004 Reserve Syrah

2004 Reserve Syrah

Wine Notes

by Barnard Griffin

Vintage Notes

This Syrah is absolutely huge in its various dimensions. The aromas are very varietal and very ripe with a background not of toasted French oak. Scents of dark fruits, cassis and violets are dominant. The flavors are rich and almost sweet on the palate following through with the dark fruit theme. The extreme ripeness of the fruit yielded a higher that usual alcohol which helps contain the enormity of the flavors.

Vineyards

Two vineyard sources were used in the development of this wine. The Gunkle Orchards Hell Gate Vineyard is located on the bluffs above the Columbia River near Maryhill, Washington. These intensely concentrated Syrah grapes are the result of a tiny second crop yielding less than three tons per acre. The fruit was extremely ripe at 27.2 brix and showed huge color and flavor. The Desert Air Vineyard is located in the Columbia Valley appellation on the Wahluke Slope. This is a perfect Syrah vineyard with huge concentration of flavors and tannins. Owned by a small grower who produces only Syrah grapes; I am lucky to find such a treasure.

Wine Making

Pasteur Red yeast was used at a Max fermentation of 88 degrees F
Pump-overs 2 to 3 times daily until fermented to dryness
350 cases produced Bottled 1/07 Malo-lactic positive
Aged in 100% New European Medium Toast oak