The 2006 Syrah was sourced from three premier vineyards. Purple-colored, it offers aromas of spice box, cedar, smoke, and blueberry. The wine has a velvety texture, fine depth, and is already showing some complexity. Drink this lengthy effort from 2010 to 2018.

The Middleton family owns this Walla Walla start-up with plans to plant an estate vineyard in 2008. Their winemaker is Virginie Bourgue, a youthful French ex-pat. Inadvertently playing straight man, I asked her if she missed French cuisine (itÆs tough to find in Walla Walla). She said, No, I cook. - JAY MILLER JUNE 2008 ISSUE