Gamache Vintners 2008 Syrah, Columbia Valley, $30
Here’s one of the few wines Charlie Hoppes — Seattle magazine’s reigning winemaker of the year — built for these longtime friends that hasn’t won a gold medal in 2013, and we don’t understand why. It carries aromas of smoked bacon and ground savory with loads of poached plum, blueberry and orange oil behind. The fluid provides a smooth texture with blackberry, plum and black cherry flavors. In the background, there’s a sense of gaminess amid the structure of bittersweet chocolate tannins, good acidity and dried strawberry in the finish.
Rating: Outstanding!
Pairings: This is a bit on the hedonistic side for Thanksgiving, but we like it with the richer side of the meal, including stuffing and smoked or barbecued turkey.
Production: 302 cases
Alcohol: 14.9%
Leave a Reply