Syrah Grand Estates
⏳ Drinking Window
Typically best enjoyed within 3 to 7 years from the vintage release.
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Grilled lamb chops, smoked beef brisket, or roasted portobello mushrooms.
✨ Technical Specifications
Columbia Crest's Grand Estates Syrah is a classic representation of Washington State's prowess with Rhône varieties. Sourced from the sun-drenched vineyards of the Columbia Valley, where sandy-loam soils and dramatic diurnal temperature shifts lock in both rich fruit flavors and vibrant acidity. Historically, Washington Syrah gained global attention in the late 20th century for its unique ability to bridge the gap between the fruit-forward intensity of Australian Shiraz and the savory, structured elegance of Northern Rhône. The Grand Estates Syrah is crafted using traditional fermentation techniques and aged in a combination of American and French oak barrels to soften its bold tannins, resulting in a velvety texture with signature notes of dark berries, cocoa, and a touch of black pepper.
🍾 About the Producer
Established in 1982 by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, Columbia Crest was the pioneer winery founded within what is now the acclaimed Horse Heaven Hills AVA of eastern Washington. Situated along the benchlands above the Columbia River, the estate takes full advantage of a semi-arid, rain-shadowed microclimate marked by intense summer sunshine, constant river breezes that deter frost and pests, and fast-draining, wind-blown Warden silt loam soils. Initial plantings in 1978 and early winemaking under founding cellar master Doug Gore established the winery's benchmark status for reliable varietal purity and commercial scale. The production regimen bridges large-scale precision with small-lot barrel fermentation and French and American oak aging. Columbia Crest cemented its reputation when its 2005 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon won Wine Spectator's Wine of the Year. Today, the estate produces tiered selections ranging from the everyday Two Vines and Grand Estates labels to vineyard-driven Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay expressions.
🍇 Grapes
Syrah
🍷 ABV
13.5-14.5%