Tempranillo gaining in popularity across Northwest

Syringa Winery 2012 Tempranillo, Snake River Valley, $27

Boise’s Mike Crowley, one of the Northwest most underrated winemaking talents and a product of Walla Walla’s College Cellars, has shown a particular flair with Spanish varieties – Tempranillo in particular. His work as the winemaker for Vizcaya Winery has given him access to Windy Ridge Vineyard near the Boise suburb of Meridian. He helped the Hansens win a double gold medal at the 2016 Idaho Wine Competition for their 2011 Tempranillo. Two years prior, Crowley used Windy Ridge Temp to earn double gold for Syringa, his brand that he named after his niece and in memory of his late sister. The oak program Crowley chose creates a charming hedonism as chocolate and toasted coconut tones run alongside juicy black cherries and rich plums. Chewy tannins impart thickness, but there’s plenty of fruit and acidity to achieve delicious balance. Crowley enjoys serving it with grilled chicken, pork and a variety of tapas.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 225 cases

Alcohol: 13.5%

Winery website

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