Wahluke Slope forms backbone of Washington wine industry

Chateau Ste. Michelle 2012 Limited Release StoneTree Vineyard Syrah, Wahluke Slope, $36

Red winemaker Brian Mackey signed off on this dense and opulent Syrah from StoneTree Vineyard, one of the Northwest wine industry’s most prized plantings. The barrel regimen of 58% new French oak yields aromas of heavy toast, dark-roast coffee and white chocolate on top of black cherry. On the rich palate, dark berries take the lead with blackberry and blueberry flavors amid a pleasing structure of chocolaty tannins and juicy acidity. Chateau Ste. Michelle Vintage Reserve Club members get first crack at this tier, then they are released to patrons of the Woodinville tasting room prior to becoming available to online customers.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 850 cases

Alcohol: 14.9%

Winery website