2016 Reynvaan Syrah ‘The Contender’ Walla Walla

JD96 The 2016 Syrah Estate The Contender from this terrific estate checks in as 95% Syrah and 5% Marsanne that was mostly destemmed (there’s 35% stems) and aged 18 months in barrel. Black raspberries, plums, toasted spice, ground pepper and decaying flower notes all emerge from this incredibly elegant, seamless Syrah that shines for its complexity, elegance, and richness. With plenty of tannins and impeccable balance, it’s approachable today yet will keep for 10-15 years with no issues.
Estate Notes: Distinctively Northern Rhone in style, the Syrah/Marsanne co-ferment highlights the purity of The Rocks terroir. Layered flavors of blueberries, dusty, briary blackberries, crushed stones, incense, licorice, sea salt, smoked meat and roast beef juices are long lasting and complex in the mouth. The fine-grained, intricately woven tannins provide a harmonious structure that frames it’s yin-yang savory and sweet elements. 95% Syrah, 5% Marsanne aged 18 months in French oak, 25% new.