2021 Les Collines Syrah
Vintage Notes
2021 was a warm growing season for Washington State marked by a record shattering heat in late June which led to historically low yields at harvest. Bud break began at the very beginning of April, ahead of historical averages. At the end of June, a heat dome descended upon the west coast. It shattered all previous temperature records. The vineyards fared well, but led to significant reduction in berry and cluster size. Veraison began in mid-July, temps cooled down in September and October, allowing for extended hang time. While overall crops were much smaller, we were very pleased with the quality. Brix were a little elevated, however, acid held on very well considering the overall warmth of the growing season. What is all means is, 2021 are delicious balanced wines!
Varietals: 100% Syrah
AVA: Walla Walla Valley Vineyards: Les Collines Vineyard
Fruit: black cherry, dried fig
Herbs/Spices/Other: sage, white pepper
Aging: 20% new french oak 18 months, 50% whole cluster
TA/pH: 6.1 / 3.84
Alcohol: 14.3%
For this beautiful Syrah we used 50% whole cluster and aged it 18 months. Notes of black cherry, dried fig, sage, and white pepper dance on the palette. “Les Collines” is French for “the hills.”
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Varietal | Syrah |
| Varietal Composition | 100% Syrah |
| Appellation | Walla Walla Valley |
| Vineyard | Les Collines Vineyard |
| PH | 3.84 |
| Aging | 20% new french oak 18 months, 50% whole cluster |
| Alcohol | 14.30% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
Les Collines (The Foothills) is one of the higher vineyards in the Walla Walla Valley: it’s located on the east side of the Valley at the base of the Blue Mountains,with an upper elevation of 1,380 feet. Soil Moisture and weather data is recorded around the clock. This 240 acre vineyard is one of the valley leaders in minimal input farming with its own composting operation and extensive use of compost tea. It is internationally certified for Sustainable Farming by the IOBC and is certified as a Salmon Safe Vineyard. It has its own state certified nursery for experiments with and propagation of clones.
