BuriedCane

Heartwood

Buried Cane wines are named after a time-honored Washington State practice used to protect grape vines from frigid winter temperatures. Low-growing vine canes (shoots) are buried under the soil, then unearthed after winter freezes pass. Buried Cane wines are named with terms common in woodcut printing.

Heartwood Red is a new Rhone varietal red blend for Buried Cane. Washington State is earning a well-deserved reputation for growing Rhone reds with classic cool-climate character of earthiness, black fruit aromas, and a “meaty”, herbal note on the palate. Washington’s long growing season is similar to that of the northern Rhone in France.

The Wine

The 2008 Heartwood Red is 78% Syrah from the Stone Tree Vineyard (Wahluke Slope), Pepper Bridge Vineyard (Walla Walla Valley) and Wallula Vineyard (Horse Heaven Hills). We added 10% Grenache and 7% Mourvedre from Alder Ridge Vineyard (Horse Heaven Hills) and 5% Counoise from Alice Vineyard (Wahluke Slope). Heartwood Red is based on Syrah because of the grape’s supple intensity. The pure berry fruit of the Wahluke Slope combines with the earthy, spicy Syrah notes from Walla Walla Valley. Grenache and Mourvedre from the Horse Heaven Hills add focused strawberry aromas and structure to the palate. Finally, the Counoise contributes pepper and candied jams for an added layer of complexity.

The finished wine shows intense fruit and savory character, with focused red and black berry fruit. On the nose, perfumed blackberry, blueberry, and marionberry take on a candied tone, with hints of vanilla and caramel. On the palate the wine is soft, plush, and full. The texture is coated with strawberry cream and rich, chocolatey tannins, and the finish is silky and gratifying.

Variety............................................ 78% Syrah 10% Grenache 7% Mourvedre 5% Counoise
Alcohol................................................. 14.1%
pH.............................................................. 3.89
Total Acidity...................................... 5.7 g/L
Bottling Date...................September 1, 2010
Case Production...............514 nine-liter cases


Tasting Notes (PDF download)