Wine of the Week - Columbia Crest Grand Estates 2012 Syrah

What's the fuss about Washington state Syrah?

In Washington we talk a lot about our affection for Washington Syrah. For us, it's one of those expressive varieties which can show off tremendous fruit, sublime funkiness, sexy floral aromatics, deep flavors and inky color. No one winemaker does Syrah the same. Washington grown Syrah lends itself to wonderful expression.

This week I'm recommending you seek out the Columbia Crest Grand Estates 2012 Syrah. With so much going on with this wine, you can no longer excuse yourself from avoiding Washington Syrah. Yes, your tongue will be stained purple. Let me know what you think in the comment section below. I am continually impressed by the quality wine produced by Columbia Crest, I think I just talked myself into bringing another bottle home.

Tasting Notes Columbia Crest Grand Estates 2012 Syrah

Color: Purple-violet, vibrant.
Nose: Earthy, fruity, plum, funk, orange peel, bacon fat, rubbed anise, generally warm character, fragrant at open, focused with violets and blueberry.
Palate: Friendly , rich, dry and smooth, earthy mid-palate, boysenberry, tar, coffee syrup, sage, focused to the front, medium finish. Quite good at open.

After 15 minutes: Perfumed aroma, earthy, light coffee, violets, cinnamon, blueberry, white pepper. Milk chocolate, blueberry, tarragon, coffee, dry creaminess, tar, lavender, fine finish mid-palate, very tasty. My speed.

At 30 minutes: Enticing earthy, perfumed nose, moved to savory, my speed. Refined, smooth drinking, boysenberry compote, dry sage, salinity, coffee, lavender, tar, dark fruit with earthiness into medium-long finish, flavors focused to mid-palate, balanced acidity more obvious. Polished, without rough edges. Easy drinking and likely good with food.

At 4.5 hours: Pleasant on the palate, soft, smooth, rose petals, lavender, gentle tannin, blueberry, hint of tar, cola, coffee, suggestion of orange tea, enjoyable grip under lips and on tongue, most of the action on the tongue. Big like. Drink me. Now.

Thoughts: Pair with BBQ, beef brisket and more robust foods. Too much for gently seasoned lamb as I discovered (that's not a bad thing). Enjoy this wonderful Washington Syrah and become a fan. Recommended + Great Value.

Blend: 89% Syrah, 7% Viognier, 2% Merlot, 2% Malbec
Closure: 2+1
ABV: 13.5%
SRP: $12 (purchased locally)

VISIT THE WINERY
Columbia Crest Winery
Hwy 221, Columbia Crest Dr.
Paterson, WA 99345
Telephone (509) 875-4227
Open Daily 10:00am - 4:30pm

When you pass through the Tri-Cities where I live, the Columbia Crest winery is only a 30 minute side trip from Richland. They have a very nice facility and an impressive tasting available. I enjoyed a wonderful visit last October. Add to your must visit list.
Cheers!