The warmest vintage in a decade set the table for storied Mike Januik’s work with Stillwater Creek Vineyard on behalf of Tom Alberg, who named his vineyard as a tribute to the Latin phrase in novale novello — “In virgin ground I plant young vines.” Planting began in 2000, and the site in Washington’s Frenchman Hills serves as a bright example of a cool-climate Syrah. A program of 20 months in 40% new French oak barrels allows for ripe purple fruit aromas that include blackberry and plum jam with hints of mocha, cured meat and tobacco. Sweet elderberry leads the juicy flavor profile that includes bittersweet chocolate, coffee and toast among the pleasing mouth feel.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 486 cases
Alcohol: 14.4%
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