This is certainly one of the most distinctive Syrahs made anywhere in the New World. It has French elegance, including some garrigue-like scents— herbs and cured meats and pepper. Big blue and black fruits, lots of spice and a chocolaty finish tag this as a serious effort. Though the alcohol is written as 14.1%, it feels lighter. The brightness of the fruit and the freshness of the acids proclaim it as Northwest, but without the chewy tannins or excessive use of new oak that disguises the actual terroir. Fine effort.——P.G.(4/1/2009)—— 92