Impressive for its structure and polish, a wine that seamlessly marries Cabernet and Syrah while retaining the best of both, with blackberry, black olive, smoky cured meat and lots of cracked pepper flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Drink now through 2030. 713 cases made.

The 2017 Roma comes from the River Rock Vineyard in the Rocks region of Walla Walla and checks in as 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah. There are around 700 cases of this killer wine, which has a big, sappy nose of white pepper, spice box, green tobacco, and cedar pencil. It shows more and more fruit with time in the glass, is medium to full-bodied, and has a great mid-palate and ultra-fine tannins. While the Cabernet component certainly dominates, there’s plenty of Syrah pepperiness. I like it today, yet it should evolve gracefully for 10-15 years with no issues.

Beginning with a lighter nose, the 2017 Roma River Rock Vineyard is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah. The wine opens to a frame of blackberries, cassis and redcurrants over vanilla tones and sweet oak with a dusty floral essence. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is compact on the palate, displaying a balanced structure and ending with a delightful and classic finish with lingering flavors of cocoa nibs, vanilla, blackberry reduction and dried savory herbs.

A rich, full red with chocolate, berries and ripe fruit. Full-bodied, yet formed and juicy with a pepper and clove-like aftertaste. Some white pepper, too. A blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% syrah.