YOUNGS MARKET® B. Leighton Olsen Brothers Vineyard Syrah 2016 (Yakima Valley, Washington) – [JD 96] [JS 96] [AG 93] – 6058436886687

Ratings & Reviews

96 Points – Jeb Dunnuck:
“The 2016 Syrah comes from a site in the Yakima Valley that was planted by Leighton. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by classic Syrah notes of dark berry fruits, smoke tobacco, olive tapenade, and ground pepper. Medium to full-bodied, with both freshness and richness, it’s impeccably balanced, with beautiful fruit and a great finish. It’s another seriously good wine from Brennon that delivers the goods. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.” – Jeb Dunnuck (4/11/2019)

96 Points – James Suckling:
“Super fragrant and attractive aromas of wild berries, spices and pepper, as well as dark stones and orange-zest nuances. This has exceptionally defined fruit and length. Really superior definition and concentration are what sets this apart. Tastes of dark cherries, blood plums and dark chocolate with a weave of fine spice and pepper. Plenty here already, but much more to come. Try from 2024.” – (23 Apr, 2019)

93 Points – Vinous:
“A field blend from vines planted in 2009 on volcanic soil at an altitude of 1,200 feet; winemaker Brennon Leighton originally created this wine for his wife, who loves Domaine Tempier; aged in neutral demi-muid and 500-liter puncheons. Medium red with a palish rim. Subtly scented aromas of strawberry, cranberry, spices, red licorice, tree bark and rose petal. Supple, savory and fine-grained, with an essentially gentle texture enlivened by spice and tree bark notes and nicely integrated acidity. This is really quite complex and suave, with its restrained sweetness countered by salinity and a light touch. If this blend doesn’t possess quite the body of the 2015, it has every bit as much energy and spicy persistence, not to mention excellent retention of fresh fruit. Finishes with a firm spine of ripe tannins. Another singular wine from the multi-talented Leighton. (14.5% alcohol)” Stephen Tanzer – (Nov 2018)

89 Points – Wine Spectator Magazine:
“This medium-bodied red is precise and well-made, with blueberry and cherry flavors accented by orange peel, pepper and bitter chocolate notes. Drink now through 2024. 290 cases made. — TF” (Issue Web Only – 2019)