Montana native Richard Funk works in the neighborhood of some of the Pacific Northwest’s best Syrah, and his young eponymous vineyard — established in 2007 — shows remarkable character with third-leaf fruit from the proposed Rocks of Milton-Freewater AVA. There’s a huge nose of blackberry, orange oil, fresh-baked brownies and rose hip spice. On the palate is a presentation of ripe, but not sweet, fresh blueberry juice with boysenberry for delicious acidity. The tannin structure is background support, allowing for a finish of orange juice. Its high pH (3.96) hints at the hedonism and would suggest enjoying this sooner rather than later with bacon-wrapped filet mignon or seared elk tenderloin.
Rating: Outstanding
Production: 147 cases
Alcohol: 14.6%
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