Coastal winemaker Dana Roberts, a product of Washington State University’s certificate program, adjusted his Swimmer program in 2014, shifting to Olsen Brothers Vineyard in the Yakima Valley and including enough Syrah (26%) to the blend that it prohibits them from labeling this Petite Sirah – as Westport had in the past. Regardless, this Swimmer still touches the wall in stunning fashion. The inky color may be foreboding, but it brings seductively floral aromas of plum jam, blackberry, fig, tar and coffee. There’s lusciousness to the plummy and sweet berry flavors, astonishingly supple black tea tannins and ample acidity. At the on-premise Farm to Fork Restaurant and Bakery, an ideal match is the Bubba Burger with bacon jam. And sales of this wine — which earned a gold medal at the 2016 Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition — benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center of Grays Harbor.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 62 cases
Alcohol: 14%
Leave a Reply