Save the Birds, Drink the Wine!

Image is courtesy of winesnw.com
 
  Some of my favorite wineries produce wines that you may never see.  Many of these wines are produced for private events, charities and auctions.  What makes these wines so special is that often, after being used for whatever event, are not poured in the tasting room, but sit well in the bottle until someone smart finds them.
 
  When I mention 'Raptor House Project' people shake their heads in confusion.  It sounds like just another new Washington winery, but alas, it is a side project for the very famous, Kestrel Vintners which is based out of Prosser, Wa and has tasting rooms in both Leavenworth, Wa and right across from me in Woodinville, Wa.  The Raptor House Rehabilitation Center is a place that cares for sick, injured or even orphaned birds to full recovery and then returns them back to the wild.  A portion of the proceeds from this wine go to support the Raptor House Rehabilitation Center since they rely purely on donations.

  So here it is, 2005--Raptor House Syrah.  Looking at the vintage you can tell this wine has had ample bottle aging so it is definitely a wine to decant for hours before enjoying.  Sweet figs, spicy peppercorns, vanilla and black raspberries are just some of the notes I get on the nose. Moving on to the palate, super soft tannins  balance well with more of those black raspberries, toasty oak and sweet figs.  The finish is truly unique with loads of tobacco and peppercorns that are reminiscent of smoking a fine cigar.  To make things more interesting, try this wine half an hour after it has been open and then again another hour or so later and observe how it changes.

  This wine would truly be divine with roasted leg of lamb, root vegetables and hard cheeses.  Come check out this wine for only fifteen dollars here at Seattle Wine Outlet and Greenlake Wines and visit myself and the rest of our lovely staff!

  Ciao!
  Erin

(I try to list all the images I use and if possible, the photographers who take these lovely photos.  If I have a photo of yours, please let me know and I will be happy to remove it from the blog.  Thank you).