2009 Sinister Hand

Owen Roe Winery in Oregon is I can honestly say quickly moving its way up to the top of my favorite domestic producers list, and winemaker David O’Rielly is jumping spots even quicker… I was first introduced to “Kilmore” a tasty high acid European style Pinot Noir, and the more economical “Abbots Table” a red blend including Zin, Cab, Merlot, Syrah, and Sangiovese .  A few months ago, I had the pleasure of tasting through a bit of second label wines from Corvidae Wine Co. and found some amazing value (personally the extra $10 that Owen Roe wines will set you back for entry level stuff is more than worth it)

The more I’m drinking this guy’s portfolio I more I really enjoy EVERYTHING!

And if you don’t wanna trust me, go talk with Michael Hughes over at Joe’s, Not only do they carry all these wines, but I bet you can find Michael singing Owen Roe’s praises as well…

2009 Sinister Hand, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Counoise, Columbia Valley

The aromatics here are worth more than the price of admission, the nose is layered with dark berries and roasted currants underneath some brighter griotte cherries and hints of strawberry. Moving into the wine is a bit tight at first, but as it opens graphite and blueberry tones take root in structured acidity and simple framework, the finish is hinted with black pepper bits and some earthen subtleties.

Interesting note….The hand on the label is in reference to the family crest, referring to a race where in order to win by loophole and while lagging behind, an O’Rielly clan member chopped off his left hand and threw it ashore to win a boat race, and claim the land as his own…