K Vintners
The Hidden Northridge Vineyard Syrah
Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Oregon/Washington, USA
Last week’s virtual comparative lineup of 2016 MacDonald vs 2016 Schrader RBS was so much fun, we decided to do another theme. This time, it was WA/OR Syrahs.
The lineup featured: 2014 Force Majuere Estate Syrah, 2014 KVintners The Hidden Syrah, 2014 Cayuse Cailloux and 2012 Cayuse En Cerise. All wines received about 5hrs of air.
The KVintners was my contribution and was poured second (after the Force Majuere and before the 2012 Cayuse En Cerise) and I think it was the perfect order. The profile of this wine was more elegant and floral than I expected, and certainly less funk driven. Aromatically, it was dominated by potpourri, lavender, herbs de Provence, stemmy blackberries and only a hint of smoked meats. Compared to the others, this gained the most heft as it opened. It continued the floral trait on the palate while adding sweet and dark fruit crusted with black peppercorns, charcoal smoked brisket and good mineral nuances. If opening now, give it a good decant and it will be ready, otherwise, I’d hold another few years. Tannins are still prominent. Great wine representing the region well, and a nice bridge between Paso Syrah (charcoal, big fruit) and WA/OR border Syrah (funky, stemmy, slightly green).
Last week’s virtual comparative lineup of 2016 MacDonald vs 2016 Schrader RBS was so much fun, we decided to do another theme. This time, it was WA/OR Syrahs.
The lineup featured: 2014 Force Majuere Estate Syrah, 2014 KVintners The Hidden Syrah, 2014 Cayuse Cailloux and 2012 Cayuse En Cerise. All wines received about 5hrs of air.
The KVintners was my contribution and was poured second (after the Force Majuere and before the 2012 Cayuse En Cerise) and I think it was the perfect order. The profile of this wine was more elegant and floral than I expected, and certainly less funk driven. Aromatically, it was dominated by potpourri, lavender, herbs de Provence, stemmy blackberries and only a hint of smoked meats. Compared to the others, this gained the most heft as it opened. It continued the floral trait on the palate while adding sweet and dark fruit crusted with black peppercorns, charcoal smoked brisket and good mineral nuances. If opening now, give it a good decant and it will be ready, otherwise, I’d hold another few years. Tannins are still prominent. Great wine representing the region well, and a nice bridge between Paso Syrah (charcoal, big fruit) and WA/OR border Syrah (funky, stemmy, slightly green).
Another outstanding vintage of this big, beautiful wine! Totally brambly and organic on the nose. (They never seem to stop coming). Black plum and dark berry fruit flavors galore. Notes of earth, mushroom, coffee, tobacco and dried herbs. Incredibly balanced with just the right acidity level. Long and smooth finish. Absolutely terrific! This one is consistent from vintage to vintage and never disappoints. Revisited in May 2021. This one is a classic Columbia Valley Syrah. Stellar!
Another outstanding vintage of this big, beautiful wine! Totally brambly and organic on the nose. (They never seem to stop coming). Black plum and dark berry fruit flavors galore. Notes of earth, mushroom, coffee, tobacco and dried herbs. Incredibly balanced with just the right acidity level. Long and smooth finish. Absolutely terrific! This one is consistent from vintage to vintage and never disappoints. Revisited in May 2021. This one is a classic Columbia Valley Syrah. Stellar!
Jun 22nd, 2019
Classic K Vintners Syrah. Needs time to open up. A bit pricey for what it delivers. Tinged, gamy and saturated notes.
Classic K Vintners Syrah. Needs time to open up. A bit pricey for what it delivers. Tinged, gamy and saturated notes.
Mar 21st, 2018
Intense dark fruit with nice lingering finish. Expected a bit more body and depth.
Intense dark fruit with nice lingering finish. Expected a bit more body and depth.
Dec 15th, 2017
This is the other 99 pointer, this is going to take some more time in the bottle compared to the Cattle King.
Give it a few years & air.
The Cattle king is ready to go whenever you are
This is the other 99 pointer, this is going to take some more time in the bottle compared to the Cattle King.
Give it a few years & air.
The Cattle king is ready to go whenever you are
