2020 Ruckus Syrah
95 pts International Wine Report
Our Ruckus Syrah, now in its 15th vintage, features a heart of Syrah and a healthy dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep, dark and wild, it explodes with aromas of blackberry, blueberry, earth, forest floor and wet rock, all wrapped in firm, velvety tannins. Iconic vineyards Ciel du Cheval and Discovery are the fruit sources for this exceptional wine. Extra tasty now, it will continue to develop for a generation.
Food pairing: Classic French country cassoulet, vegetarian Shepherd’s pie
Movie pairing: Pulp Fiction
FOUNDERS’ NOTES:
Once upon a time there was a syrah called Stella Mae. As demand for syrah began to taper off a bit, we decided in our third vintage to align our girls' wines on either side of the Gironde, even though it is nowhere near Woodinville in the name of family harmony. So, in 2006, we made Ruckus, our Red Mountain syrah blended with a touch of cabernet sauvignon.
| Download Wine Notes |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Varietal | Syrah |
| Varietal Composition | 95% Syrah,
5% Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Appellation | Red Mountain |
| Vineyard | Ciel du Cheval, Discovery |
| Acid | 0.53 g/100 mL |
| PH | 3.75 |
| Aging | Aged in 23% new French oak. Racked to blend prior to bottling. Bottled at 18 months, post cross flow filtration 4/22. |
| Fermentation | Maximum temp. 93°F. |
| Residual Sugar | 0.03 g/100 mL |
| Alcohol | 14.50% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Bottling Date | 04/25/2022 |
| Cases Produced | 326 |
| Country of Origin | UNITED STATES |
| State of Origin | Washington |
| Artificially Carbonated | No |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
"The 2020 Sparkman Syrah ‘Ruckus’ from Columbia Valley impresses with its deep purple-ruby core and light violet rim, hinting at the richness within. Aged for 23 months in 23% new French oak, this blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon brings together intense aromatics of rich violets, ripe blackberries, bacon fat, and dark chocolate powder, all layered with forest herbs, sweet licorice, and a touch of white pepper. On the palate, the wine showcases lovely acidity that perfectly complements its sweet but firm tannins, delivering a structured yet vibrant experience. The spice and black fruit-driven finish lingers beautifully. 326 cases produced. Drink 2024-2032."
95 Points International Wine Report
