Owner/winemaker Gord Taylor is one of the few who honor François Durif, the French botanist who discovered the variety in a vineyard and named it after himself. The cross between Syrah and the obscure grape Peloursin is more commonly known as Petite Sirah. Taylor brought in grapes from Zephyr Ridge and Alder Ridge, both top vineyards in the Horse Heaven Hills above his Prosser, Wash., winery. He also blended in just a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The results are spectacular, with aromas of black olive, leather, black cherry and malted milk balls. On the palate, this is a supple and somewhat subdued version of the normally muscular wine, with flavors of blackberry, coffee, sage and cumin. It is a perfect wine to pair with prime rib, pork tenderloin, venison or a bean burrito.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 110 cases
Alcohol: 13.4%
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