More about the 2019 SEQUEL COLUMBIA VALLEY SYRAH: The 2019 Sequel Columbia Valley Syrah is a testament to the collaboration between renowned winemaker John Duval and the unique terroir of Washington State's Columbia Valley. Crafted by Long Shadows Vintners, this Syrah exemplifies the blending of old-world expertise with new-world fruit expression. John Duval, formerly the winemaker for Australia’s iconic Penfolds Grange, brings decades of experience to this project. His vision for Sequel is to highlight Syrah's potential to express complexity and depth while maintaining the vibrant, fruit-forward character for which the Columbia Valley is celebrated. The 2019 vintage benefited from an optimal growing season, characterized by a mild spring, warm summer, and a long, cool autumn that allowed the grapes to achieve full phenolic ripeness while retaining excellent acidity. Sourced from some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards, including The Benches and Bacchus, this wine showcases the diversity of the Columbia Valley. The careful selection of vineyard sites contributes to the Syrah’s layered profile, with notes of dark berries, smoked meat, black pepper, and a touch of earthiness. A splash of Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure and complexity, enhancing the wine’s balance and age-worthiness. In the cellar, Duval employed meticulous winemaking techniques to highlight the wine’s nuanced character. The grapes underwent extended maceration to extract optimal color and flavor, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks and aging for 18 months in French oak barrels, 65% of which were new. The result is a rich, full-bodied Syrah with velvety tannins and a long, elegant finish. The 2019 Sequel strikes a harmonious balance between power and finesse, making it an excellent choice for pairing with hearty dishes or enjoying on its own.