Naches Heights Vineyard, Yakima Valley (Washington) Syrah 2019

 The Naches Heights AVA was approved in 2012, and the winery of the same name is owned by Phil Cline.  He was the first to establish vines in what is the smallest (37 acre) AVA in Washington and today it is the only AVA in which all vineyards are sustainably farmed.  Cline’s vineyard is at the highest (1,800 feet) elevation where the soil is predominantly volcanic.  This Syrah is incredibly dark, and though it is built on a large scale, it is multi-faceted and fascinating.  Initial aromas of black pepper, leather and cola give way to lovely blackberry and floral notes.  Big and round on the palate, it offers ripe savory black fruit flavors.  All the intricate pieces are brought home in a lingering finish.  This is a new winery Rhône fans should check out.