2017 Va Piano Vineyards, Syrah, $49.75

Winery Info: Va Piano was founded by Justin Wylie, a fourth-generation native of Walla Walla.

He became interested in the wine industry that was growing up around him and began making wine himself, with help from local growers and winemakers. One thing led to another and, in 2003, he began his first commercial crush. The Tuscan theme for Va Piano was inspired by the time Justin spent studying in Florence during his senior year at Gonzaga. We’ve been long-time fans of his wines but it’s been way too long since we’ve featured one in our club!

Winemaker: Justin Wylie

Grapes: 100% Syrah

Vineyard:­ Sourced from Va Piano’s Walla Walla Valley estate vineyards.

Flavor Profile: Rich and elegant, with aromas and flavors of dark fruit and spice and a hint of olive tapenade. The texture is smooth and the savory finish is long and lingering.

Availability: There is very little left of this vintage.

Drinking Window: Enjoy anytime, up to 2027.

Food Pairing: This wine would pair well with hearty fare, like roasts or stews, or with braised lamb or duck breast.

2019 Darby Winery, Chaos, $36

Winery Info: A long time passionate wine aficionado, Darby English began crafting his own wine in 2002. That passion grew into a purpose and he established a winery in the Woodinville warehouse district, producing his first commercial vintage in 2005. With access to fruit from some of the best vineyards in the state, plus innate winemaking talent, he quickly gained the attention and respect of the local wine world and his wines just keep getting better and better. Today, in addition to his Woodinville site, he has a tasting room right here in the Alaska Junction.

Winemaker: Darby English

Grapes: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Malbec, and 8% Petit Verdot. Aged 16 months in neutral French oak.

Vineyards: Quintessence (Red Mountain), Dineen (Yakima Valley), and Stoney Vine (The Rocks District).

Flavor Profile: Smooth and balanced, with impressive structure and inviting flavors of black cherry and cocoa. The tannins from the Red Mountain fruit are silky and seamless.

Availability: There are just a few cases left of this vintage.

Drinking Window: Enjoy this one anytime, up to about 2028.

Food Pairing: Try this one with grilled meats, or perhaps Tex Mex.

2019 Devison Vintners, “Beneath the Stones,” Stoney Vine Vineyard Syrah, $49.75

Winery Info: Halifax native Peter Devison discovered his passion and talent for wine and food after moving to Vancouver, B.C.      Continue reading →