2004 Copain Syrah Cailloux Coccinelle

I continue to be awestruck by the amazing complexity and potential quality of the Syrah grown on the Oregon side of Walla Walla. While most of the fruit from this site goes to Washington State’s Cayuse winery, Copain’s 2004 Syrah Cailloux-Coccinelle (75% whole clusters were used) is riveting, and nothing I have tasted from Cayuse has been as profound as this cuvee. Copious blackberry, tapenade, bacon fat, crushed rock, and flower aromas jump from the glass of this rich, full-bodied, full-throttle, amazing Syrah. The olive characteristic continues in the flavors along with roasted meat, creme de cassis, and blackberry notes. A fabulous wine with undeniable complexity and richness, it should drink well for 10-15 years. It’s hard not to enjoy a visit with Wells Guthrie given his enthusiasm and passion for accessing top-notch vineyards and producing high quality wines. His impressive resume includes positions with Michel Chapoutier and Gerard Chave as well as a short stint as a journalist for The Wine Spectator. Guthrie is one of the Rhone Ranger mavericks who utilizes considerable stems in his winemaking as well as a variety of barrels, ranging from small casks to the large, 600-liter demi-muids. Such Old World winemaking techniques as minimal intervention, natural yeast fermentations, and no fining or filtration has resulted in thrilling wines of undeniable character and personality. (Release date 3/06) Tel. (707) 541-7474; Fax (707) 541-7575