The 2009 NxNW Syrah is sourced from 69% The Les Collines vineyard (block 12) in Walla Walla and 31% Wallulu vineyard (block 30) in Horse Heaven Hills both located in the Columbia Valley of Washington State. NxNW is a project put together by King Estates of Oregon to explore the grapes from the inland growing areas of the Columbia River basin in both Washington and Oregon. The grapes are sourced from particular blocks in some of the finest vineyards and no expense is spared in the production of the wine. The NxNW Syrah was aged in French oak for 20 months and the alcohol content is 14.5%. These wines are not inexpensive, you should be able to find this Syrah in the $30 to $35 range, but when compared to many high-end, small production (373 case) wines on the market today, they are attractively priced.
The color is barely see-thru, intense purple. The nose is sweet red berries, creamy vanilla, black pepper and a little Altoid’s spice. This Syrah a lovely, substantial mouth, along with rich full flavors. It tastes of a mix of black and blueberry, with a strong slap of licorice, a soft hit of spice and a soothing bit of soft black cherry. The tannins are smooth and sweet and the acidity is right in the pocket. The finish is smooth, sleek and strong.
To me, wines like the NxNW are the new High-end wines. The 2009 NxNW Syrah is sourced from grapes grown in small sections of the very best vineyards and crafted into wine by talented, creative professionals, it has a very small production volume, so it is very exclusive and yet it is very affordable for a “splurge” wine. The quality of inexpensive wines are greater now than in any time in history, to make a very grand statement, but sometimes an occasion calls for more than simply the usual and the NxNW Syrah gave give you a wonderful, unique drinking experience and at a price that makes sense.
