Snake River Valley native Martin Fujishin partners with Greg Koenig some of Idaho's top Syrahs, so it makes sense that he'd bottle a delicious one under his own brand. A sniff gathers up lots of purple fruit and bacon fat with dusty cherries and Earl Grey tea. Flavors of fresh plum and blackberry make for an entry that's smooth and soft, yielding to long finish of Bing cherry … [Read more...] about Fujishin Family Cellars 2009 Syrah, Snake River Valley, $22
Idaho
Fujishin Family Cellars 2010 Petite Sirah, Snake River Valley, $22
Petite Sirah produces a red wine that is not meant for the meek, and Idaho winemaker Martin Fujishin manages to keep the fruit pumping through the grape's naturally muscular tannins. The nose is dark and inviting with hints of Belgian chocolate, black currant and black cherries. On the entry, it's rather plush as bittersweet chocolate swirls around those berries. Marionberry … [Read more...] about Fujishin Family Cellars 2010 Petite Sirah, Snake River Valley, $22
Telaya Wine Co. 2010 Syrah, Columbia Valley, $26
Telaya is a small winery in the suburbs of Boise, Idaho, that uses grapes from Washington's Columbia Valley. The 2009 version of this wine won a gold medal this spring at the inaugural Great Northwest Wine Competition, and the 2010 follows through with the same quality. The grapes come from West Hills and Gamache vineyards, and the wine opens wtih aromas of oak, blackberry, … [Read more...] about Telaya Wine Co. 2010 Syrah, Columbia Valley, $26
Telaya Wine Co. 2010 Turas, Columbia Valley, $28
Telaya is a small producer in Garden City, Idaho, that uses Washington grapes. This blend includes Syrah (60%), Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It opens with aromas of oak, boysenberry syrup and black olives, followed by flavors of red plum, black cherry and chocolate. It's a pretty big wine that will pair well with grilled meats. Rating: Excellent Production: 150 … [Read more...] about Telaya Wine Co. 2010 Turas, Columbia Valley, $28
Fujishin Family Cellars 2011 Late Harvest Chardonnay, Snake River Valley, $22
As Greg Koenig's right-hand man, Idaho native Martin Fujishin plays an important role in making many of the Snake River Valley's best wines. He's showed a deft touch with late harvest Riesling over the years, and here's another delicious dessert. It opens with aromas of baked apple pie, lemon pudding and bubblegum. On the palate comes a delivery of poached pear, Honey Nut … [Read more...] about Fujishin Family Cellars 2011 Late Harvest Chardonnay, Snake River Valley, $22