2014 Cristom Estate Eola-Amity Hills Willamette Valley Syrah

14.5% alc., 251 cases, $50. Sourced from 1.25 acres of estate Syrah, planted in 2001 by grafting over Chardonnay. The vineyard is the warmest on the property. Four Syrah clones are picked separately and blended together. First bottled in 2003 when it was the first estate grown and bottled Syrah in the Willamette Valley. A rarity, since only about 32 acres of Syrah are planted in the Willamette Valley. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of blackberry compote, leather and tobacco lead to a middleweight style wine that drinks like a Pinot Noir. Flavors of blueberry and blackberry are strikingly glorious and nicely spiced with a peppery note. Balanced fine tannins make for easy approachability and my only nit is a hint of alcoholic warmth on the finish. A wine like this makes you think that Oregon should be doing more with Syrah crafted in a cool climate style. Score: 92. Reviewed February 1, 2017

Winery: Cristom Vineyards
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Oregon Wines