Anelare 2011 Syrah, Columbia Valley, $39
Charlie Hoppes, Seattle magazine’s reigning Winemaker of the Year, now leads the winemaking for this boutique family operation near Red Mountain. At the same time, this Washington Syrah marks the Alexanders’ continued relationship with Gamache and West Hills vineyards — longtime favorite sites for Hoppes. The result is a luxurious bottling that opens with barrel notes of caramel, vanilla, black licorice and clove with notes of sweet plum, black cherry and blackberry. Inside is a rich entry of Rainier cherry, brambleberry and plums with racy acidity and tannins in the background.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 150 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
Leave a Reply