2022 Luke Wines - Syrah Wahluke Slope (750ml)
Luke Wines was founded in 2012 by husband and wife Thomas and Kristin Vogele, Seattle area natives who bring decades of Pacific Northwest wine industry experience to the label. The brand grew quickly, expanding from a modest first vintage to tens of thousands of cases within about a decade, and has earned a reputation as one of Washington's fastest rising producers, including a spot on Wine Spectator's Top 100 list. Luke wines are produced in partnership with the Milbrandt family, whose vineyards and production facilities in Mattawa have supported the brand since its earliest days.
This Syrah is sourced from the Wahluke Slope AVA, a roughly 80,000 acre appellation in Eastern Washington known for one of the state's warmest and driest climates. The region's intense sunlight and well drained, sandy soils encourage deep color development and concentrated fruit in Syrah, while cool desert nights help preserve acidity. The wine is 100 percent Syrah, crafted to showcase the variety's richness and structure without leaning on any other grapes for support, a style choice that lets the vineyard's character speak clearly.
Full bodied and richly colored, this Syrah opens with black cherry, sarsaparilla, and violet aromas, along with hints of burnt caramel and vanilla. On the palate, ginger, black tea, and mulberry flavors meet robust, well built tannins. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, smoked brisket, or a peppery steak.