2018 was another warm vintage for Washington that was marked by ideal weather during the harvest season. The Columbia Valley cycled through cool and warm months at the start of the growing season. April was cool, delaying bud break slightly. Then May was one of the warmest on record, advancing bloom. This was followed by a cooler-than-average June. The result of it all was a long, drawn out harvest season that started for sparkling wines in mid-August due to the warmth of the season but then ended in early November for some growers at larger sites. Warm days during harvest continued sugar accumulation while cooler nights preserved acidity. As a result, Brix levels were slightly above average in 2018, while acid levels were higher than anticipated for a warm vintage.

Tightly focused and rather firm at the moment but still offers plenty of appealing blackberry, toasty sage and licorice flavors. 55% Syrah, 41% Grenache, 4% Mourvedre. Best from 2022 through 2030.