This Washington state Syrah punches far above its weight in terms of quality for money.

It’s a bright, deep garnet with a ruby rim and thick legs.  On the nose it has pronounced intensity with aromas of deeply ripe blackberry, Damson plum, red currant, spice box, leather, barnyard and fresh earth.

The palate is dry with medium plus acidity, average alcohol and ripe, dusty tannins.  The medium body hangs on its pronounced flavours of deeply ripe black plum, boysenberry, blackberry and cassis. As it opens, prune and raisin develop alongside soy sauce, vanilla, clove and ginger, fresh leather saddle, cured meat and compost – compost, but in a good way. Punctuated with pepper and tobacco, the finish is long and tasty.

WSET Very Good wine with complex aromas and deep, full flavours, although slightly imbalanced with a heavier palate over the nose.  Drink now or cellar 3 more years.