Founded only in 2001, Cougar Crest Estate Winery is a name worth remembering, at least judging from this stylish Syrah. Syrah has gotten bad press recently with many critics lamenting its failure to deliver distinctiveness. Not so with this one. Seductive savory elements compliment the rich ripe black fruit notes in this wine that shows the all too elusive combination of power and grace. Plush tannins allow you to enjoy this summer with grilled lamb. It took a Gold Medal at the 2013 Critics Challenge International Wine Competition.
Cougar Crest Estate Winery, Walla Walla (Washington) Syrah 2008
By Michael Apstein