2022 Estate Syrah

This Syrah is sourced from Waterstone Vineyard, located within the prestigious Walla Walla Valley AVA, specifically in the sub-region known as the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. The vineyard’s Freewater Cobble soils, formed from ancient riverbeds, are rich in alluvial stones that promote excellent drainage and warmth retention. Combined with Walla Walla’s cool nights, these conditions allow grapes to ripen slowly, developing concentrated flavors and a unique minerality. This interplay of rocky soils and temperature variation gives the Syrah its deep complexity and well-balanced structure.

 

Produced exclusively from 100% Waterstone Vineyard Syrah, the wine was crafted to express the full character of Walla Walla Valley terroir. Hand-harvested and gently de-stemmed, the grapes were fermented in one-ton stainless steel fermenters using Rockpile yeast, chosen specifically to amplify the wine’s natural minerality and enhance the terroir-driven qualities of the vineyard. Aged for 22 months in 50% new French oak barrels, this Syrah gained added depth and structure, with the oak imparting subtle spice and a silky mouthfeel that complements the wine’s bold fruit profile.

 

On the nose, this Syrah offers captivating aromas of jammy blackberry, crème de cassis, and hints of camphor, backed by the vineyard’s hallmark wet-stone minerality. The palate is rich and layered, with ripe dark fruit flavors balanced by earthy undertones and a touch of spice from the French oak. Smooth, well-integrated tannins provide a luxurious texture, while the distinctive minerality from Walla Walla’s cobbled soils adds freshness and length. The finish is elegant, leaving lingering notes of black fruit, savory herbs, and an unmistakable mineral quality, offering a true taste of Walla Walla’s renowned terroir.