Tim Armstrong can trace his heritage to Scotland, and he pays homage to those roots with a subtle reference to James Busby, the Scot who is viewed as the 19th century Johnny Appleseed of Australia’s wine industry. This bottling marks Armstrong’s third vintage of showcasing Discovery Vineyard for his prized work with Syrah, and it’s a stunning example of the May family’s superb site overlooking the Columbia River in the Horse Heaven Hills appellation. Subtle, rich cherry notes on the nose pick up warm baking spice and a hint of menthol. Flavors hinting at black cherry and blackcurrant swirl with cedar and tobacco for an expensive mouthfeel. The acidity balances nicely with attractive tannins. Earlier this fall, the Scotsman stair-stepped its way from best of class to Best Red Wine to Best of Show at the 2020 Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition, a judging staged at the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel in Hood River, Ore., on behalf of sommeliers, wine merchants and journalists from across the country.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 190 cases
Alcohol: 14.8%
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