There are many family-owned boutique wineries in the Walla Walla Valley, but Joe Grant and Doris take it to another level — producing about 200 cases per year. In the case of their Syrah from Les Collines Vineyard, they work with one barrel. And what a barrel it is — earning our top rating for the second consecutive vintage. The nose is filled with strawberry fruit leather and black cherry fruitiness, backed by rich cocoa, ground cinnamon, freshly scraped vanilla bean, sauteed mushroom and sage. Inside, the drink is dark and gorgeous with plum sauce and raspberry with chocolaty tannins and a pinch of oregano. It’s on the hedonistic side as the alcohol pokes out a bit akin to an Aussie Shiraz, but try it with rich meats such as lamb, pot roast or braised ribs.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 27 cases
Alcohol: 16%
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