Abeja Syrah Walla Walla 09

2009 Wine Spectator - 92 points - Dense and peppery, with a lovely beam of violet-tinged blackberry and cream flavors pushing through a layer of polished tannins and finishing strong. Drink now through 2017. - H.S.

The spicy, dense blackberry fruit is backed up in the mouth with fig, black and white pepper, and subtly smoked meats. The mouth has ample grip but leads with a silky sensation of dried flowers, floral lavender blossoms, and tar. It finishes with a nice balance between fruit, acidity, and minerality. - the winery