Drink now or cellar for another 12 years. No need to decant before serving.

Charles Smith is a legendary figure amongst Washington State winemakers thanks to his maverick attitude and passion for innovation. The former rock band manager fell in love with wine while touring in Europe, and later returned home to figure out how to make his own wines. He began in 1999 with a first vintage of 330 cases of Syrah, and within a few short years he had been named Winemaker of the Year by both Food & Wine and by Wine Enthusiast magazines.

This fine single vineyard cuvee comes from the River Rock Vineyard which was planted in 2001 to the south of Walla Walla. The soils here are very well-draining and the climate is the warmest of all the Walla Walla Valley, creating ideal conditions for premium red winemaking. This blend is composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, with the fruit fermented in stainless steel tans and then aged in new French oak for 22 months before bottling.

This rich and intense wine takes a little time to open up in the glass, showing off gentle notes of wild black berries, tobacco leaf, tapenade, and hints of forest floor. On the palate there is a robust full body, firm tannins, and a solid core of black fruit which lingers on the tongue. It’s a great wine to either cellar for a few more years or pair with rich meat dishes.