2015 K Vintners Syrah Klein

Almost always one of my favorite releases at this address, the 2015 Syrah Klein Vineyard is up with the crème de la crème in the vintage. Plums, candied cherries, violets, lavender, chocolate, and tons of dusty, earthy minerality all emerge from this exotic, singular, full-bodied, effort that has building tannin and a vibrant, rich, textured style. With incredible purity, notable structure, and a lifted, perfumed style, it's flat-out gorgeous. One of the highlight tastings I do in Washington State is unquestionably with Charles Smith and Brennon Leighton, who together produce a sensational lineup of Rhône and Bordeaux blends, as well as a seriously good Tempranillo and Sangiovese. The majority of the Cabernet Sauvignon dominated cuvees have been moved from the K Vintners label to the Wine of Substance label, which are also reviewed in this report. All the Rhône blends are not destemmed, see native ferments, and are aged mostly in used French oak. These are the real deal and are brilliant wines.