For the fourth time, Woodinville’s Brian Carter earned a Platinum for his Rhône-inspired GSM. Only this time, it received a Double Platinum and stands as the highest-ranked of his six Platinums in 2021. Lonesome Springs Ranch and StoneTree have long been at the core of Byzance, which in 2016 was a blend of Grenache (58%), Syrah (19%) and Mourvèdre (16%) that also includes Counoise and Cinsaut. The Grenache brings vibrant tones of red currant and strawberry sauce, and there’s blueberry, smoke and spice from the Syrah. And while sultry in its structure and roasted coffee, there’s great Marionberry acidity to achieve balance. Awards: Seattle Wine Awards (double gold), Savor NW (best of class), Cascadia International (gold), Wine Press Northwest peer-judging (Outstanding!).
Rating: Double Platinum, 97 points
Production: 434 cases
Alcohol: 14.7%
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