2013 Helix Columbia Valley Syrah

Well, that was a week!  It seems like time moves much quicker, the older you get and so far this year is flying by.  So I guess I better enjoy some wine while I can, and tonight it's a bottle I just happened to find as I was looking through the cellar for something to pair with tonight's dinner, the 2013 Helix Columbia Valley Syrah from the Phinny Hill Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA of Washington.  So let's see what this wine has to offer!

The wine is a deep ruby color with a lot of substance, almost more Merlot like.  The nose is a classic Syrah, with aromas of black cherry, currant and vanilla bean, overlaid with a hint of lavender that tempt you to take a sip.  The taste is a rush of rich black fruit, blackberry, cherry, plum and currant that envelop the palate before embarking on a journey to a bit of anise and white pepper spice midpalate.  The tannins are smooth, with some vibrant acidity that playfully develop a long and very smooth dry finish.

Overall, I would rate this wine a solid 8.5, as I get the feeling this wine is just starting to come into its own.  This wine is an excellent everyday wine that's a pleasure to sip, but would assume a solid supporting role for a variety of dishes, from steaks to pizza to seafood.  Tonight I am enjoying this wine with some pan seared sea scallops, on a bed of spinach and baby arugula along with some pasta with garlic and olive oil and steamed Brussels sprouts.  The fruit and acidity really play well with the richness of the scallops.  Cheers!