HORS CATEGORIE Syrah 2017

Wine Region: Washington - USA

Grape: Syrah

Tasting notes: "Bursting from the glass, the 2017 Syrah has a mineral essence with aromas of summer sausage, black raspberry, blackberry and dark plum with savory aromas of black pepper spices, potpourri, touches of cocoa powder and freshly roasted coffee bean. The wine has a focus and precision that presides with the top bottlings from around the world. Aromas of newly tilled earth explode from the glass with floral notions of lilac and rose nuances that waft with spicy tones. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is seamless, bounding forth with complexity and a velvety richness that is exponentially compounded by the power the resides at its core. Devastatingly gorgeous, it takes my breath away, as the wine ends with a tightly wound, complex expression that continues to evolve over the elongated finish. With only 1,800 bottles made, good luck finding some, for if you do, you will undoubtedly be the envy of your wine treasure-hunting friends." – Anthony Mueller, The Wine Advocate

About the winery:
It's in 2005 that Christophe Baron discovered the Hors Catégorie Vineyard site. In 2011, Hors Categorie was the first vineyard planted on the steep slope along the North Fork of the Walla Walla River. It’s a rare terroir, absolutely unique in America, with a climate, exposure and topography creating an incomparable wine-growing estate. The vineyard is farmed biodynamically, as all of Christophe Baron’s vineyards are, and in the pasture 150 feet below, cows, goats, sheep, beehives and other wildlife complete the natural ecosystem.

Expert Rating:
Wine Advocate: 98/100