Martin Woods ‘The Rocks’ Syrah

Martin Woods “The Rocks” Syrah is a savory, high-energy Syrah from the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater (the cobblestone “Freewater” soils just outside Milton-Freewater on the Oregon side of Walla Walla), and it’s built to showcase that site’s signature mix of dark fruit, spice, and umami.   The 2022 is sourced from River Rock (60%) and RockBar (40%), fermented with 50% whole cluster, given extended skin time (about 40 days), then aged 12 months on lees in mostly neutral 400L/228L barrels (only 6% new oak) plus 6 months in tank, and bottled unfined/unfiltered at 14.2% ABV—all choices that keep it structured, aromatic, and very “place-driven.”   In the glass, expect the classic Rocks profile: violets and wildflowers, black raspberry/plum, cracked pepper, and that unmistakable savory edge—green olive, meaty/umami, gravelly earth, and warm spice—finishing fresh, fine-tannined, and built to age while still being ridiculously good with grilled meats and anything smoky.