A very nice Syrah-driven red blend from one of the patriarchs of Washington Wine. Blackberry leads on the nose, with a background of black cherry. It also shows black pepper and and a touch of tar. Syrah dominates on the palate, with blackberry and pepper. Other varietals show in black cherry in the background. Black licorice and tar give depth on the mid-palate. Tannins are dusty and mildly mouth-coating, with a solid acid backbone. Drink with shredded duck. Recommended. 89 points.
WHO: Columbia Winery
WHAT: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre
WHERE: Washington, Columbia Valley
DESIGNATION: Stonecutter Series, Lapis
WHEN: 2010
PRIVE: $32