When Tim and Kelly Hightower first planted on Red Mountain in 2005, they began with the five primary Bordeaux varieties. Not long after, Tim’s mother, Jackie moved nearby and planted 2 acres of Syrah and few vines of Viognier. So this co-fermented Syrah from J Hightower Vineyard fits alongside Hightower Cellar’s sister label that serves as a living tribute to their late four-legged companion, Murray. This Syrah is a remarkable collection of savory and leather notes backed by ample fruit such as blackberry, elderberry and dark cherry. Hints of mint, vanilla and oak add to the jamminess. Last year, Korean-influenced Joule in Seattle brought in the Hightowers for a winemaker dinner that including a pairing of the Murray 2014 Syrah with hot smoked tuna belly lox, toasted bulgar fried rice, apple and jicima kimchi and miso raisins.
Rating: Recommended
Production: 125 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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