The 2017 ‘SJR Vineyard’ Syrah by Force Majeure is a tour de force in Washington and Oregon wine. Not needing any decant, the ‘SJR Vineyard’ Syrah bursts out of the glass with Hoisin sauce and Umami aromatics that dramatically combine with shades of green olive tapenade, and white pepper dusted bacon fat that all take shape in the glass. The palate has a seamless quality, effortlessly showing off its soft mouthfeel and pillowy texture that mingles with a solid acid backbone. Decadent blackberry cobbler flavors sing in unison with suggestions of milk chocolate covered dark cherry, smoked brisket, creosote and roasted dates. A complete wine, the 2017 Force Majeure ‘SJR Vineyard’ Syrah is fantastic in its youth will provide drinking enjoyment for a decade or more, picking up more savory and tertiary components as it gracefully ages. Drink 2020-2032

- 97pts Owen Bargreen