'07 Powers Syrah Reserve, Cougar Vineyard, Wahluke Slope, WA

14% abv. Darkly colored and opaque. The scent and flavors are of dark berries and the wine is slightly brooding. I believe it has reached full maturity and would not benefit from further aging. I drank this one evening with meatloaf and mashed potatoes and another evening with macaroni and cheese. Only cost $17.99 when I bought it years ago. A bottle I had in 2012 I gave a rating of 89 or 90 points; this time I rated it at 88 points. In 2012 I thought it had enough grip and structure for aging potential but I think it may be slightly past prime now and I still have one or two bottles to consume.

[Jenise]

Most 07's peaked years ago (I skipped the vintage), and Powers doesn't make their wines with the long haul in mind (they're a value-oriented winery) so unfortunately I'm not surprised that you find this on the fade.

Are you referring to the 2007 vintage in Washington specifically? I have had some very good 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon from California.

[Jenise]

Yes I am, Jane. Was fairly hot up here, similar to 09. Attractively voluptuous out of the gate especially for fans of that style, but lower in the elements needed for aging.