Yakima Valley winemaker Gordon Taylor doesn’t rush his annual fortified project with Newhouse family vines, and his latest merely continues his excellent track record with a dessert wine from Syrah. Aromas bring hints of dark chocolate, cherry cola, President plum, Tootsie Roll and a bit of earthiness. On the palate, it’s akin to blackberries backed by sweet plum and cherries. In sticking with tradition, he leaves his Port-style on the lees for more than six months, which creates a creamy structure while still leaving a bit of tannin to balance the residual sugar (10%). And his presentation of alcohol is sneaky. He suggests serving this with baked Brie and French bread, chocolate mousse, Christmas cookies, flan and fresh raspberries.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 140 cases
Alcohol: 18%
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