The 2017 Hors Catégorie Syrah is a mind-bending wine from Christophe Baron. This expressive Syrah comes from a unique vineyard setting that lies at convergence of the north fork and the Walla Walla River. As far as the wine itself, it instantly impresses with its simply stunning aromatic profile, offering ripe blackberries, dark cherries and roasted plum followed by dried violets, smoke, cured meat, bacon, espresso, leather, pepper, spices and a hint of black tea. On the palate this is a full-bodied Syrah that is beautifully balanced and possesses a gorgeous sleek, supple texture that displays remarkable concentration. It’s backed by a wonderful underlying streaks of acidity and minerality providing freshness that carries over onto the finish which lingers with nuances of dark fruit, violets, dark chocolate, espresso and earthy flavors. Today, this is showing exceptionally well, however there is still plenty of life left and it should have no issues lasting for well over a decade. This is one of the most complex and captivating wines you will find. Wow! (JD)