At a glance

Producer

Spring Valley Vineyard

Region

Walla Walla Valley, Washington, USA

Grape variety

Syrah

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$45-$75 USD (current secondary market)

Tasting profile

Dried blackberry, stewed plum, pepper, dried violet, earth, savory spice; tertiary notes (leather, mushroom) emerging

Evolution: Has transitioned from primary deep fruit to integrated, complex secondary and tertiary flavors

At peak: At peak in 2018-2021 for maximum complexity; drink now for mature, savory profile

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Resolved, fine

Alcohol

14-15% ABV

Aging potential

Originally strong, now at or past peak

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2017 to 2021

Optimal window

2015 to 2022

Current status

Mature, approaching late peak

Current condition

Showing tertiary development, best to drink soon; some bottles may be fading

Syrah from Washington can age well for 8-12 years; by 2024, most bottles are in a gentle decline with diminished freshness but increased earthy, savory character. Not recommended for significant further aging.

Food pairing

Game meats (venison, duck), braised short ribs, mushroom risotto, mature cheeses

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 4/10

Practices some sustainable farming but not certified; typical of larger Walla Walla producers circa 2011. Lacked formal energy/water reporting but region is increasingly conscious. Traditional glass packaging, no lightweight or eco-packaging initiatives noted.

Spring Valley Vineyard in the early 2010s was known for quality viticulture but not leading-edge sustainability. No major environmental certifications, though basic soil/water stewardship is typical for the Walla Walla Valley. Packaging and shipment methods were standard glass and road transport. Improvements have been made by many Washington producers in the late 2010s, but the 2011 Nina Lee does not reflect modern best practices in sustainability or environmental controls. As such, its sustainability rating scores below average.