2017 K VINTNERS ‘King Coal’ Red Blend Walla Walla Columbia Valley

JD98 One of the top two or three wines in the vintage, I was blown away by the 2017 King Coal, which comes all from the Stoneridge Vineyard on the Royal Slope and is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah. The Syrah is not destemmed, and everything is co-fermented in oak uprights and aged in 60% new barrels. Brilliant on all accounts, with a huge nose of spiced red and black fruits, chocolate, cured meats, tobacco, and truffle, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, awesome tannins, a great mid-palate, and a finish that won’t quit. The Syrah component gives this plenty of upfront appeal, yet it’s going to cruise in cold cellars for 15 years or more.