Another Washington Syrah, this time from Walla Walla.
The Mackey brothers, Philip and Roger, launched Mackey Vineyards in 2010. The 2008 vintage was their first. Their 2009 Syrah is therefore their second vintage. And it is a vintage worth aging in your wine cellar. A collectors wine. This initial exposure to Mackey Vineyards was interesting. Expect great things from this winery.
Tasting Notes
Color: Garnet, clear.
Nose: Cherry perfume, dry bubble gum from a card pack, cherry wood cutlery block, dry sage, raspberry, tar,
Palate: Some initial heat, black fruit, acid, tart, short finish.
30 minutes, expressive nose, smooth, bit less acid, blackberry, bit tart, short finish.
45 minutes, layers of dark chocolate with blueberry and cola on the nose, blueberry, chocolate, tar on the palate, coming together, heat and tartness gone. At 60 minutes same.
2 Hours, satisfying mouth feel, fine texture on the cheeks, round palate with plum, dark fruit and black pepper.
3 Hours, caramel, coffee, pepper mill, dark fruit on the nose. Luxurious mouth feel, black fruit, cola, road tar, medium finish.
5 Hours, wine was very dark, bacon fat added to the picture with violets, ripe blackberry, fresh raspberry, cocoa, coffee, mint and a long tasty finish. Tongue stained purple. Bingo! Rocking it after 5 hours.
Thoughts: This wine needs more time in bottle. It is drinking young. Took 5 hours for the magic to appear. Magic which I appreciated. This was an interesting preview of things to come. I would hold for at least another two years, five would not hurt either. If you wish to drink now I would decant for at least 4 hours. A cellar worthy wine. Recommended.
Blend: 100% Syrah
Vineyards: 76.7% Mackey Vineyards, 16.7% Les Collines, 6.6% Bacchus
ABV: 14.4%
SRP: $32
Production: 123 Cases
Sample provided by winery
Mackey Vineyards
4122 Powerline Road
Walla Walla, WA 99362
Phone: 509.526.5160
The fireplace is optional, however it sure helped keep me warm.
Cheers!