2006 Hogue "Genesis" Columbia Valley Syrah

92 points and a "Best Buy" designation from Wine & Spirits Magazine: "Hogue's syrahs from its Genesis series are generally open, generous expressions of the grape, a lot of fruit for the money. In 2006, Hogue's red winemaker, Jordan Ferrier, captured the freshness of a great vintage, from sources in the Horse Heaven Hills and Wahluke Slope. It's as rich as chocolate cake, but its texture remains remarkably lifted and succulent. Ideal for barbecue." (04/09) For more than a few years Hogue has been pumping out value after value from Washington. It would seem as if they had a never-ending supply of magic vineyards that continuously create the perfect juicy fruit for whatever varietal they want to capitalize on next. This time it is Syrah and it makes perfect sense. I can't think of any other domestic growing region has out performed the Columbia Valley in the department of producing affordable, delicious Syrah over the last 6-7 years. A bold nose of ripe plum races out of the glass, but is quickly caught by cracked white pepper, hickory smoke, wet asphalt and highlights of sweet caramel. The palate here is above all else juicy, brimming with plenty of wild berry fruit, cola spice, blueberry and rare beef to make this easy to drink, while the soft, pliable tannins will give this enough structure to drink regularly over the next 2-3 years. (Bryan Brick, K&L)