Barnard Griffin Syrah 2017, Columbia Valley, Washington

Barnard Griffin Winery is situated in south-central Washington at the confluence of the Yakima, Columbia, and Snake rivers, in the heart of Washington State’s wine country. Founded in 1983 by Rob Griffin and Deborah Barnard, Barnard Griffin has been producing award-winning wines for over 30 years. 2017 vintage – 96% Syrah, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot. Winemaking: Pumpovers 2-3 times daily; pressed at 1-3% sugar; peak fermentation temperature 85 degrees; aged in European oak barrels and upright ovals. 100% Malolactic positive. “The Syrah from Desert Aire Vineyard, which is the backbone of this blend, has some of the most expressive fruit flavor in Washington. Syrah in our climate has a wonderful balance of refined acidity and structure (think France) and bright definitional fruit (think Australia) without overblown alcohol. Our 2016 is impressively structured with a lively, juicy core of plum, cherry and briar patch flavors accented by notes of blueberry, vanilla and clove. Ripe and dense, but also elegant and well-balanced.” – Winemaker’s Comments