2019 Firebird
Summit View Vineyard ∞ Walla Walla Valley AVA Syrah
114 cases produced. $52 | MAGNUM AVAILABLE
Named for Igor Stravinsky’s “Firebird Suite,” these grapes are sourced exclusively from Summit View Vineyard, one of the highest elevation sites in Milton-Freewater, Oregon – at 1,150 feet. Its deep, well-drained glacial soil produces full-bodied fruit with intense flavors and vibrant acidity. Aged 12 months in French oak, this gentle, lower tannin Syrah is for Pinot lovers.
TECHNICAL NOTESNOSE: Blueberry, blackberry pie, leather, tobacco, pine needle, white pepper, cocoa, nutmeg.
PALATE: Blueberry concentrate, black cherry cola, nutmeg, forest floor.
Ellen Landis’ Review: An enticing black fruit and spice aroma wafts from the glass as this velvety smooth Syrah approaches the nose. Well-structured with deep layers of blackberry, earthiness, cassis, grilled meat, plum, and savory elements entwining. It displays complexity, good balancing acidity, and a backbone of chalky tannins, and melted chocolate notes add dimension to the long-lasting finish, leaving you wanting more.
Frederic Koeppel’s Review: The color — vivid medium ruby-purple with a transparent rim; aromas of raspberries, mulberries and plums, permeated by black licorice and crushed violets, a whiff of freshly ground pepper and Mediterranean garrigue (dried thyme, rosemary and bay leaf, dusty meadows); propelled by lip-smacking acidity and juicy black fruit flavors; plenty of graphite-inflected structure but delectable. Excellent.
Great Northwest Wine’s Review: It’s a cool-climate expression of Syrah that features a wide range of blue fruit tones. The nose opens with a rub of lavender, then black cherry, elderberry and President plum as well as sandy minerality and cedar. Plums lead the other fruit on the entry to the palate, which is juicy and a bit hedonistic before a nibble of blueberry skins in the finish. Excellent.
