Happy Wine Wednesday! It's finally beginning to feel like spring as it hit 84 yesterday and today we were in the upper 70s. So it's definitely grilling and sipping wine on the patio weather finally! Tonight I've decided to settle my Washington Syrah challenge obligation by opening a bottle of a recent wine club shipment, the 2018 Anvil Boushey Vineyard Syrah from the Yakima Valley AVA of Washington. This particular vintage came from the Birdhouse block of the vineyard during a record hot vintage, so let's see how it's tasting.
The wine is a wonderfully rich garnet color in the glass as you might expect from a nice Syrah. A quick whiff and you're greeted by aromas of blackberry and currant, with undertones of beef and earthy mineral notes. Take a sip and a rush of ripe black fruit washes over your palate, with blackberry, currant and cherry that ease into notes of dusty limestone midpalate. The tannins are nicely structured, with a balanced acidity that ushers you into a smooth dry finish with hints of cocoa at the end.
Overall, I would rate this wine a solid 8.5, as it's a beautiful example of a solid Washington Syrah with great curb appeal for a variety of dishes. This wine would pair well with grilled lamb chops, venison or even a hearty pasta. Tonight I am enjoying this wine with a nice rare grilled porterhouse along with some grilled broccoli rabe and a baked potato with sour cream and scallions. Cheers!
