Tenet The Pundit Syrah

SEE SYRAH THROUGH OUR EYES. DISCOVER A WINE THAT DEFIES CONVENTIONAL WISDOM, ANNOUNCING
TO THE WORLD THAT ITS TIME TO TAKE FLIGHT ON THE WINDS OF CHANGE, LEAVE OLD NOTIONS BEHIND,
AND EXPERIENCE SOMETHING TRULY REVOLUTIONARY. THE PUNDIT EXPRESSES FINESSE AND BALANCE,
UNITING A TRADITIONAL RHÔNE STYLE WITH ALL THE ATTITUDE OF THE GREAT COLUMBIA VALLEY WINES.
YOULL NEVER LOOK AT SYRAH THE SAME WAY AGAIN.
VINTAGE
The 2014 vintage was one of the warmest growing seasons in decades. The ripening period
in September cooled to more typical weather for the region. In October temperatures
rose again to one of the warmest October months on record. Overall 2014 was an ideal
growing season; ripening was excellent for all varieties in all locations.
WINEMAKING
Approximately 22% of the lots were fermented as whole clusters, with the remaining lots
fermented as de-stemmed grapes. The inclusion of stems during fermentation contributes
earthy, savory aromas and flavors that perfectly complement the pure fruit character of
the grapes. To further enhance these complexities, about 20% of the lots also underwent
extended maceration.
After fermentation, the majority of the young wine was placed into neutral French and
American oak barrels for aging, with the remaining wine aged in tight-grained new
French oak barrels. The use of neutral and tighter-grained barrels helps to preserve the
unique character of the wine itself.
The assembly of the final blend was a true collaboration of winemakers Bob Bertheau,
Michel Gassier and Philippe Cambie, combining their decades of experience to produce
a wine that demonstrates why Washington State is one of the best growing regions in
the world for Syrah.
WINEMAKERS NOTES
The color is deep purple with ruby highlights. Ripe cherry and plum aromas are
complemented by earthy undercurrents of smoky cocoa and cola, and highlighted by
traces of citrus blossom and lemon. A very smooth mouthfeel glides into a long silky
finish with flavors of red cherry and blackberry, hints of toasted vanilla, and a tantalizing
slate element.
APPELLATION
Columbia Valley
BLEND
88% Syrah
6% Grenache
4% Mourvèdre
2% Viognier (co-fermented with Syrah)
AGING
Aged for 13 months in oak barrels;
88% in neutral French and
American oak barrels,
12% in new French oak barrels,
TECHNICAL DATA
pH: 3.83
TA: 0.54g/100mL
Alcohol: 14.5%
Bottling Date: December 915, 2015
Cased Produced: 9,658

Region Description

The Columbia Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) is the largest in the state of Washington. It includes the Yakima Valley, Red Mountain, Walla Walla, and Horse Heaven Hill AVAs within its boundaries.