I often get asked about my favorite Syrah. Let’s dive right in: I firmly believe Syrah should be celebrated as Walla Walla’s standout grape. Despite being Washington’s third most planted grape—trailing behind Cabernet and Merlot—I argue that Walla Walla wine country’s Syrah competes neck and neck with those from North Rhone.
So, why does Walla Walla Syrah taste so darn good? First off, our unique climate of hot summer days and cool nights is ideal for Syrah. Plus, Washington’s long daylight hours during the grape-growing season give Syrah vines the sunlight they crave. There are numerous vineyards here producing exquisite, well-structured Syrahs, like Red Willow, Lewis, Grand Ciel, Funk Estate, and Stone Valley, to name a few.
However, today, I’m focusing on Les Collines Vineyard! Whenever I hear a local winery mention their Syrah from Les Collines, my day instantly brightens. The Syrahs from this vineyard embody everything I seek in a perfect glass of Syrah.

Les Collines, operational since 2001, sits at high elevations, peaking at 1370 feet, near the Blue Mountains (“Les Collines” translates to “the foothills”). Its proximity to the mountains means it enjoys cooler mornings due to later sunrise, which is a boon during our often scorching summer days. It also receives more rainfall than many areas in Walla Walla, and its soil retains the optimal amount of moisture.
What sets Les Collines apart is its commitment to sustainable farming practices, like water conservation, avoiding herbicides, and fostering native vegetation. This approach, coupled with the favorable climate, is why Syrah from here is exceptional. These wines are rich in dark fruit characteristics with a hint of minerality and a delightful level of acidity. To me, they represent perfection in a bottle.

My first encounter with a Les Collines Syrah was the 2016 vintage from Gramercy Cellars. It was divine, boasting a slightly floral aroma with a palate of dense fruit and evident minerality, complemented by black pepper and a hint of gaminess. It was a wine that could rival any Cote Rotie.
A few other Les Collines Syrahs that have captured my heart include:
- The 2017 Va Piano Les Collines Syrah, presents a beautiful bouquet of dark black cherry, pepper, and herbs.
- The 2018 Grosgrain Les Collines Walla Walla Valley Syrah, introduces a touch of violet and opens up to thyme, rosemary, and blackberry fruit, offering a softer experience than others from Les Collines.
- The 2020 Echoland Les Collines Walla Walla Valley Syrah, fortunate to be harvested before the fires, is filled with ripe black and blue fruits, soft minerality, and a savory profile.
The exceptional Syrahs from this vineyard could be the topic of endless discussions, especially my favored area, Block 50, but that’s a story for another time. For now, if you’re in search of the perfect glass of Syrah, head towards the Blues!