# K The Hidden Syrah (2018)

- **Producer:** House of Smith
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Washington, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, black cherry, black plum, flower, cassis, vanilla, cedar, cloves, stone, chanterelles, ancient soil

## About this wine

K The Hidden Syrah 2018 is a 100% Syrah from Washington State's Wahluke Slope. Produced by House of Smith, a winery founded by Charles Smith, it highlights the unique characteristics of the Northridge Vineyard. The vineyard's soil composition and microclimate contribute to the wine's concentration and minerality. The 2018 vintage was noted for its favorable growing conditions, allowing for balanced ripeness and acidity. The wine's distinctive production includes 100% whole cluster fermentation and aging in French oak puncheons.

## Interesting facts

- Fermented with native yeast for a more authentic expression.
- Aged for 22 months in 54% new French oak puncheons.
- The 2018 vintage was described as a year where 'femininity reigns supreme' in Washington wines.
- House of Smith is the largest independent and winemaker-owned winery in Washington.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like lamb, beef, and game. Herbal notes in the wine can echo savory herbs used in cooking, while the fruit profile can be enhanced by fruit-based sauces or accompaniments.

## Wine making process

The K The Hidden Syrah 2018 is crafted from 100% Syrah grapes. The winemaking process involves fermentation with native yeast and 100% whole cluster fermentation, which lasted for 47 days on skins. Following fermentation, the wine was aged for 22 months on lees. A significant portion of the aging, 54%, occurred in new French oak puncheons. The grapes were sourced from the Northridge Vineyard in Washington State's Wahluke Slope appellation.