My favorites in the Sparkman portfolio are the Syrah-based wines. The 2006 Syrah Ruckus contains 23% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot aged for 20 months in 75% new French oak. It emits a complex aromatic array of smoked meat, game, bacon, licorice, blackberry, and blueberry. Full-bodied and brawny on the palate, it is opulently styled with boatloads of savory black fruit, plenty of fine-grained tannin, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. Enjoyable now because of its baby fat, it will become a bit more civilized with 3-5 years of additional cellaring.
Sparkman Cellars, located in Woodinville, was founded in 2004 by Christian Sparkman, his wife, and partners.
Tel. (425) 398-1045; www.sparkmancellars.com