First Release Syrah

J&J Vintners First Release Syrah (about $22) – Sourced from Yakima Valley grapes, the inagural release from this Milton Freewater, Oregon winery offers plenty of dark plum and cherry fruits up front, a dash of black pepper and an underlying touch of smokiness on the finish.

This doesn’t carry the brighter notes of acidity some wine enthusiasts might desire, but if you like a Syrah with more of a soft, light finish, this is the wine for you. There’s also a “bright-side” corollary worth noting: it doesn’t carry the hefty price tag you’re likely to find on other Syrahs produced in the Walla Walla Valley.

The J&J behind J&J Vintners are Walla Walla born and bred owners/winemakers Jeremy Petty and Jody Middleton. For additional wines and ordering visit www.jandjvintners.com.