2002 Columbia Crest Reserve Syrah

[dananne]

Decanted 30 minutes a before 1st pour and through evening. Deep reddish-purple in color, with a nose of meat and chocolate. Dark fruit flavors almost are secondary to the flavors from the nose, particularly the chocolate, which Anne liked. Thick in the mouth, and creamy in texture, like whole milk (or, come to think of it, chocolate milk!). Though the tannins are quite smooth, this one should continue to drink well for 3-5, no problem. Alc. 14.2%. We paid $18 locally, which was a decent value. Overall, I find them a reliable producer and good P/Q, but have yet to taste the '03s that Bucko found beneath standards. FWIW, WS gave it a 93.

[Bucko]

Here's my note on the wine:

2002 Columbia Crest, Syrah, Reserve, Columbia Valley, Washington, $30, 4,000 cases. Ruby red in color with blue overtones. This one is easy on the palate, with nice balance. The plum and blueberry fruit plus the Viognier influence makes a pleasant mix; 87/87.

[dananne]

Big price difference. Wonder why? Heck, now I wish I had bought more than just the one bottle! Thanks for the notes. I wonder if the Viognier is what gave it the easy mouthfeel?

[Bucko]

I always list SRP, often much higher than discounters. You can certainly do worse for $18.

Viognier has long been added to Syrah to "fix" the color of the wine, as well as add apricot/floral notes.