2006 Long Shadows Sequel Syrah

A generous and concentrated wine of great character, the 2006 Sequel is notable for its deep purple hue, rich aromatics and layers of flavor. Almond, dark chocolate and cherry notes fill the glass, complemented by hints of black licorice, blackberry, cocoa powder and a touch of smoke. Great complexity on the palate with a lengthy finish, this is a refined wine of beauty and balance.

The Columbia Valley’s growing seasons are remarkably consistent and the 2006 vintage was no exception. Warm summer days and cool fall temperatures slowed ripening just enough to allow the grapes to develop excellent acidity and wonderful balance in the wines.

Carefully selected, hand-harvested grapes were fermented in 2 – 4 ton tanks using a variety of fermentation methods including "Rack and Return," a technique John frequently uses in Australia that allows for gentle handling of the berries while extracting optimal color and richness. This vintage was aged 18 months in 65% new French oak barrels, 30% in one-year-old French oak and 5% in 300L hogs head American oak barrels.

John works with a variety of diverse Columbia Valley vineyards to craft this wine: Syrah from Horse Heaven Hill’s Alder Ridge and Wallula Vineyards serve as the backbone; Yakima’s acclaimed Boushey Vineyard contributes to the wine’s refined structure; Bacchus Vineyard provides dimension and depth; Red Mountain and the surrounding area vineyards enhance the wine’s concentration, color and richness. A small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon (4%) from Sagemoor’s Dionysus Vineyard on a southwest facing slope in Pasco adds structure and an extra layer of complexity.

14.7% pH: 3.77 TA: 0.59grams / 100ml Blend: 96% Syrah; 4% Cabernet Sauvignon Release date: October 2008

2,012 cases