The 2014 'The Contender' is a stunning Syrah by superstar winemaker Matt Reynvaan. This Syrah has 6% Marsanne blended in and is sourced from the Reynvaan's esteemed 'In The Rocks' Vineyard. This is still clearly in its nascence, as it requires more than one hour of air contact to fully begin to express itself. After speaking to Matt Reynvaan on several occasions about his wines, he preaches the importance of letting his Syrahs receive considerable air before consuming. As this begins to unwind, it releases vivid aromatics of red and black berries along with red candied cherries, tarragon, meat, crushed wet stone and lavender. The mid-palate possesses a wonderful texture, with bright fruit flavors of pomegranate, wild blackberry compote, boysenberry, fennel, thyme, blood orange and lighter suggestions of wet stone continue on through the exceedingly long finish. The elegance of this wine is already apparent, and I expect this wonderful Syrah will age gracefully into the next decade and beyond. (Best 2016-2028) - December, 2016 (OB)
Wine Specifications
- Report Date: December, 2016
- Producer: Reynvaan Family Vineyards
- Vintage: 2014
- Drinking Window: 2016-2028
- Estimated Value: $65
- Country: United States
- Region: Washington
- Appellation: Walla Walla Valley, Rocks District
- Importer: N/A