Two Washington "Rhones"

[Bucko]

I'm not against your big boys. I just want them to resemble what is written on the label. Here are a couple that do just that. Both of these wines have almost 15% ETOH. I'm not sure if they are released yet, but case production is small and you may be able to get in on the ground floor.

2002 McCrea Cellars, Sirocco, Washington State, $32, 550 cases. Named for the hot wind that blows from Africa across the Mediterranean, this is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Counoise. Big, complex and fruity, the wine displays aromas and flavors of blue and black fruits with a touch of smoked meat; 90/90.

2002 McCrea Cellars, Syrah, Washington State, $25, 550 cases. Always nicely done, the new lower pricing makes this a terrific value. Full-bodied, crisp, with tannins held well in check, the wine has lovely aromas and flavors of black fruit, smoke and white pepper nuances; 91/92.

Bucko