While it's 2009 version was one of three Spring Valley wines I tasted on this occasion that were significantly marred by reduction, their 2008 Syrah Nina Lee - which received 21 months total elevage and one-third new barrels - kept reduced elements in check and integrated them into a satisfyingly stimulating whole. Redolent of sage, horehound, smoked meat and candied cherry, it marries these elements to tart rhubarb and piquant fruit pit on a firm palate. Finishing with grip but somewhat detached tartness and grainy tannin, this is likely to retain its stamina for some years, though I-m skeptical about whether it will acquire charm or a more harmonious finish.
Now part of the Ste. Michelle galaxy, and named for an area 12 miles north of Walla Walla, Spring Valley Vineyard was first planted in 1993-95 by a local wheat-farming family and the first wines were bottled under its label in 1999. Following the early death of owner-winemaker Devin Corkrum Derby in 2004, his French friend and assistant at the time, Serge Laville, stepped into that role, which he retained when the brand (though not the Corkrum family vineyards) were sold to Ste. Michelle. Each varietally-labeled, estate-grown Spring Valley wine is 100% from its labeled variety, and each of the winery's bottlings is associated with - as well as adorned by an antique photograph of - one or more of the vineyard owners- ancestors.
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