Noviello Vineyards 2014 Syrah, Red Mountain, $48
Charlie “Wine Boss” Hoppes works with Fredric and Ana Stern on their young project near the Columbia River resort community of Orondo, Wash., and the Richland winemaker pulled from rising star Red Heaven Vineyard for this chocolaty Syrah. The 22-month program in both French and American oak builds aromas of Chukar Cherry, blackberry and cola, which lead to bright flavors of boysenberry, blueberry and pomegranate seeds wrapped in bittersweet chocolate. These wines can be found at Assaggio Ristorante in Seattle, El Gaucho in Bellevue, the QFC in downtown Bellevue and the fun Lone Pine Fruit & Espresso along Highway 97 near Orondo.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 96 cases
Alcohol: 15.02%
The Rocks District at 3767 acres would be the second smallest AVA in the NW.