With last night's main course of seared pork tenderloin painted with smoked paprika and oregano:
2013 Gramercy Cellars Syrah Lower East Columbia Valley
A deftly made, perfectly evolved syrah that could pass for a Northern Rhone in a blind tasting. Black raspberry, earth, nori, and anise with a hint of fresh asphalt and green olive, this wine is ready for current drinking but also has the acidity and tannins for continued cellaring. Drink or hold thru 2025.
2014 La Rata Wines La Rata Walla Walla Valley Grenache/Cabernet/Syrah
In my last note six months ago I threatened to hold, not drink my remaining bottle and now look what I went and did. Rocks funk, green olives, allspice and white pepper dominate the nose, while lush red plums, pomegranate and other pie spices fill out the palate. Drinks superbly immediately upon opening so decanted not needed/recommended. Aced the food match.
2017 Reynvaan Family Vineyards Syrah In the Rocks Walla Walla Valley
Margot's bottle, uncorked five hours earlier. Rocks funk prevails on the nose followed by olives and black pepper. On the palate, damson plum, blueberry, fried artichokes and wild sage. Structurally, Owen called this right--it's surprisingly agreeable and outgoing for a young Reynvaan.