It’s hard to say what the best part of Wy’east Vineyard is. The small, family-run vibe, the relaxing patio with views of the Hood River Valley or the fact that their tasting room is in a converted fruit stand in Hood River, Oregon. First beginning as a pear orchard, owners Dick and Christie Reed took up grape farming in 1996 before producing their own wine in 2002. With wines ranging from estate grown Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from vineyards to the northeast, it proves a good representation of what vineyards along the Columbia River have to offer.
Wy’east Vineyards 2013 Syrah shows off winemaker Peter Cushman’s preference for more delicate, European-style red wines. With a fragrant, floral aroma, the flavors open up to delicate berry notes under a tannic full-bodied mouthfeel. The grapes were sourced 20 miles to the east on the other side of a rain shadow in Dallesport, Washington, making it ideal country to grow heavier red wine varieties. The Syrah is perfect for pairing with a spicy meat dish (I prefer bacon), or just a cool evening out on the deck.
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