Columbia Gorge Syrah

Back label nails the flavor profile - black cherry, white pepper, mint, and a smidge of saline in the finish. Slightly tart. To me, the salty finish inhibits the length of the fruity flavors, and underscores the tactile aspects of the skin tannins and the bitterness of the seed tannins on the finish. Overall, four notes dominate- cherry, salt, acid and tannins, with hints of those undercurrents of mint and white pepper. An interesting wine, but not a style of Syrah I’m in love with. Call it a technical appreciation of a winemaker who’s willing to take chances in his craft. Mostly he hits, and on this one he doesn’t quite do so. Close though. And yet, after three hours, the black cherry fruit finally comes out with depth. Decant accordingly.