Celebrate Walla Walla Valley Wine and The World of Syrah
Celebrate Walla Walla Valley Wine returns, June 16–18. This year, presenters will explore the cultural and historical significance of Syrah.
Dark, full-bodied, and often possessing a spicy aftertaste, Syrah is a bold red that pairs beautifully with vibrant foods such as a blue cheeseburger or barbecue. To shine a spotlight on the nuances of these intriguing wines, Syrah takes center stage at this year’s Celebrate Walla Walla Valley Wine.
Syrah, is the second-most grown grape varietal in the Walla Walla Valley AVA, and throughout the weekend (July 16–18, 2020), guests will be able to explore the subtle differences between not only local wines, but also those from around the world, during special tastings and presentations.
“Walla Walla Valley Syrah has earned a world-class reputation for delivering a premium, terroir-driven wine experience,” says Robert Hansen, Executive Director of the Walla Walla Valley Wine Alliance. “We look forward to honoring this distinguished varietal and there is no better time to meet face-to-face with winemakers who are pushing the boundaries of Walla Walla Valley Syrah than during Celebrate Walla Walla Valley Wine.
Syrah is a bold red that pairs beautifully with vibrant foods.
The festivities commence Thursday with the World of Syrah Kick-Off at Gesa Powerhouse Theatre. Presenters will explore the cultural and historical significance of Syrah—a fitting aperitif for the Vintage Pour library tasting to follow at CAVU Cellars. There, visitors can sample vintages aged 10 years and longer from more than 40 Walla Walla Valley wineries.
Friday dives even deeper into the craft with a panel of global winemakers, who will discuss acclaimed Syrah-growing regions with attendees at Marcus Whitman Hotel & Conference Center. Learn why “Syrah likes a view,” how soil and climate affect flavors, and discover the contrasts of Old World and New World Syrahs. You’ll certainly leave prepared for the evening’s Syrah Grand Tasting at Valdemar Estates, which represents the largest organized tasting event of the year in the Walla Walla Valley. Approximately 50 wineries will pour their latest Syrah releases, as well as white and rosé wines.
The three-day event will give oxenophiles a chance to taste, pair, and gain in-depth knowledge about about Walla Walla Valley Syrah.
Finally, Saturday’s Collaborative Winemaker Dinner Series affords oenophiles a tantalizing opportunity to pair their favorite wines with exciting culinary spreads at various locations around the Valley. Ticket holders can expect an exclusive experience, hosted by phenomenal chefs and winemakers.
“The enthusiasm surrounding Syrah continues to grow, and we are excited to welcome wine fans to the Walla Walla Valley to celebrate with us this July,” says Hansen.
For more information and to buy tickets, visit CelebrateWallaWalla.com.
