K Vintners The Deal Syrah 2015

(from flood soil on the Wahluke Slope with a vein of volcanic sand running through it; vinified with 100% whole clusters in concrete, then aged in puncheons, 25% new, for 18 months): Bright, dark ruby-red. Pungent aromas of blackberry, pink peppercorn and black licorice. Juicy and intensely flavored but tighter and less sweet than Motor City Kitty and Milbrandt Syrahs, and more about finesse than primary fruit. Finishes classically dry, with serious tannins saturating the tongue and front teeth. (14.5% alcohol)

-- Stephen Tanzer