1054592
From the gravelly alluvial fan of the Columbia River's floodplain, the 2020 K Vintners Syrah evokes the soul of Northern Rhône with its majestic aroma of suede, black tea, and coal. On the palate, regal layers of black plum, tar, and umami unfold with a velvety texture, revealing a wine of stunning depth and balance. A Washington gem with Old World charm.
Wine Advocate
The 2020 Syrah Royal City is still tight and firm but is instantly impressive with power, precision and finesse as seductive and juicy tones of black cherry, spiced blackberry jus and elegant floral notions waft with soft savory and spicy aromas. Full-bodied, generously layered and complex, the wine will have no problem shedding its baby fat and will be a juggernaut upon release in the fall later this year. This expressive, layered, succulent Syrah will remain food-friendly for decades; just be patient. Made 100% whole clusters, the wine saw two years of barrel aging in French oak, 60% new. It's an absolute pleasure and will age beautifully over the next two decades. Just under 8,300 bottles produced.
James Suckling
Perfumed notes of cracked pepper, incense, rosemary stems, blackberries, white ash, graphite, black olives and mocha all leap out of the glass. Wow. What intensity, building to a crescendo on the palate. Firm, tight-grained tannins here. Full-bodied with incredible structure and depth. Try in 2026.
Jeb Dunnuck
One of the true gems in the vintage is the 2020 Syrah Royal City, which comes from the Stoneridge Vineyard in the Royal Slope region of the state. All Syrah from tiny yields of 1.8 tons per acre that spent 51 days on skins and 28 months in 60% new French oak, it has an incredible array of red and black fruits, cured meats, toasted nuts, ground pepper, and savory flowers. Full-bodied, deep, pure, and incredibly layered, this sensationally complex, seamless Syrah is a tour de force that needs to be tasted to be believed. It’s one of the wines of the vintage and will have 15-20 years of overall longevity. Surprisingly, I think it’s better than the 2019.