Dark-fruited and offering aromas of smoke and black cherries with red and black peppercorns, the 2018 Syrah Grande Estates offers a spicy core of fruit with hints of oak on the nose. Medium to full-bodied, the wine displays flavors of cherry-infused sausages with a mineral-laced finish that expresses both French and American oak tones. Enjoy with barbecue and goodies from the grill.

此款酒帶有濃郁的水果風味，酸酸的雜交草莓味尤為突出，并伴有些微泥土、鉛筆和咖啡渣的味道。單寧緊實，余味中等偏長。評分：88。

The 2007 Syrah Grand Estates exhibits a nose of smoke, plum, lavender, and blueberry. Straightforward on the palate with decent fruit and moderate length, it is a solid effort but not one of the stars of the collection. Columbia Crest, part of the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, is Washington’s largest winery. It produces mammoth amounts of wine (2,000,000+ cases) at a remarkably high level of quality. A visit to the cellars reveals brilliant organization, high morale, and a sense of personal involvement by the staff that undoubtedly adds value to the finished wine.Tel. (509) 875-2061; www.columbia-crest.com

This is a changed wine from previous vintages, now emphasizing the berry flavors of the fruit and not shying away from some chewy tannins. It seems more honest and direct, without the wash of vanilla and jam, and more food-friendly as well, with the stuffing to take on a flank or hanger steak. ——P.G.(12/31/2010)—— 87