houseofsmith.com

2011 K VINTNERS Syrah ‘The Cattle King’ Upland Vineyard

$67.00

95
WA
90
WS

Experience the untamed beauty of Washington State with the 2011 K Vintners Syrah ‘The Cattle King.’ Immerse yourself in a symphony of dark fruit, exotic spices, and refined tannins that embody the essence of the Columbia Valley. Charles Smith’s masterpiece awaits – secure your bottle now for a journey into the heart of ‘The Cattle King’ vineyard. Elevate your wine collection with this bold expression of power and elegance. Cheers to seizing the moment!

Volume: 750 ML | 15% ABV

1 in stock

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Wine Advocate – 95 Points

The first vintage for the 2011 Syrah Cattle King, it’s a blend of 100% Syrah that’s all from Snipes mountain AVAs and vines planted in 2001. Offering up fabulous purity, with notes of black cherry, big minerality, earth and subtle underbrush aromas and flavors, it offers full-bodied richness, sweet tannin and thrilling length on the finish. Drink over the coming decade or more. Jun/2014 —Jeb Dunnuck

One of the highlight (and largest) tastings for this report, the team at K Vintners consists of wild man himself, Charles Smith, and Andrew Latta and Brennon Leighton. Despite the rock star persona, when it comes to the wines, these guys are dead serious, source grapes from some of the top sites, and simply get out of the way once they’re in the winery. All of the single vineyard Syrah’s are fermented with native yeasts and 100% whole cluster, and see an extended time in mostly neutral French oak puncheons. Starting with the 2013s, I was able to taste a few from barrel, and they showed plenty of fruit, with ripe, textured personalities. This was a hot vintage, and the style is closer to the 2012s than the 2011s. Moving to the 2012s, these were all still in barrel at the time of this tasting. As with most producers, these are a step up over the 2011s and possesses gorgeous richness while still showing the purity and freshness that’s common in the vintage. The 2011s, which were all tasted out of bottle, come from a cooler, more difficult vintage, yet show solid ripeness and good textures. As a whole, the 2012s are certainly stronger, but these are no slouches either.

Wine Spectator – 90 Points

Gritty tannins surround a juicy core of blackberry and floral flavors, persisting into the long and open-textured finish. —winespectator.com

Description

The 2011 K Vintners Syrah ‘The Cattle King’ stands as a testament to Charles Smith’s avant-garde winemaking prowess and the unique terroir of Washington State’s vineyards. Crafted from exceptional fruit sourced from the acclaimed Upland Vineyard in the Columbia Valley, this Syrah is a bold expression of power, elegance, and the untamed spirit of the region.

In the glass, ‘The Cattle King’ reveals an intense, inky purple hue, a prelude to the concentrated richness that awaits. The nose is a symphony of dark fruit, with blackberries, plums, and blueberries harmonizing with layers of exotic spices, black pepper, and a subtle hint of smoky bacon.

On the palate, this Syrah unfolds with a dynamic interplay of flavors. Ripe black fruit takes center stage, complemented by notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and a touch of earthiness that reflects the vineyard’s distinctive character. The tannins are robust yet refined, providing structure to the wine’s opulent texture.

The 2011 vintage, marked by cooler temperatures, allowed for a slow and even ripening of the grapes, resulting in a wine that embodies both power and precision. ‘The Cattle King’ is a tribute to the ranching history of the region, and the label depicts the iconic cattle brand that once marked the property.

This Syrah, with its complex layers and seamless integration, captures the essence of ‘The Cattle King’ vineyard. Whether enjoyed now for its immediate allure or cellared for further evolution, this wine is a profound representation of the K Vintners philosophy — a commitment to authenticity, a celebration of the land, and a daring exploration of the possibilities within a bottle of Syrah.

K Vintners, founded by the charismatic and unconventional winemaker Charles Smith, has become a trailblazer in the Washington State wine scene, celebrated for its distinctive wines that reflect both the terroir of the region and Smith’s avant-garde approach to winemaking.

Charles Smith’s journey into the world of wine is as distinctive as the wines he produces. Originally a manager for a rock band in Europe, his passion for wine led him to pursue a wine education in Scandinavia. Working in a wine shop, he gained a deep appreciation for European wines and a unique perspective on winemaking.

In 1999, Smith made a pivotal move to Washington State’s Walla Walla Valley, a burgeoning wine region with untapped potential. Here, he founded K Vintners, focusing on small batches of Syrah that would showcase the unique terroir of the area. The name “K Vintners” pays homage to Smith’s partnership with Christophe Baron, who founded Cayuse Vineyards.

K Vintners quickly gained recognition for its bold and expressive Syrahs, each bearing the distinctive touch of Charles Smith’s hands-on, minimalist winemaking style. His commitment to showcasing the true expression of the fruit, combined with a knack for creative branding, earned him a reputation as a maverick in the industry.

The portfolio expanded beyond Syrah to include other varietals and blends, each crafted with the same dedication to quality and innovation. Iconic wines such as ‘The Hidden,’ ‘Motor City Kitty,’ and ‘Kung Fu Girl Riesling’ have become synonymous with Charles Smith’s ability to bring out the best in diverse grape varieties.

Smith’s irreverent and bold personality is reflected not only in the wines but also in the distinctive labels and names he gives to his creations. His dedication to authenticity and belief in the potential of Washington State’s terroir earned him the prestigious title of “Winemaker of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast in 2009.

K Vintners, under Charles Smith’s visionary leadership, continues to be a dynamic force in Washington’s wine landscape. Smith’s unapologetic approach, combined with a commitment to quality, has made K Vintners a symbol of creativity, passion, and excellence in winemaking. The journey from a European wine enthusiast to a rock-and-roll winemaker has left an indelible mark, and K Vintners remains a beacon of innovation in Washington State’s wine industry.

Professional Reviewer

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The Wine Advocate • robertparker.com — WA
Wine Spectator • winespectator.com — WS
James Suckling • jamessuckling.com — JS
Wine Enthusiast • winemag.com — WE
The Wine Independent • thewineindependent.com — TWI
Allen Meadows —Burghound • burghound.com — BH
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine • cgcw.com — CGCW
Wine & Spirits • wineandspiritsmagazine.com — W&S
The Tasting Panel • tastingpanelmag.com — TP
Antonio Galloni —Vinous Media • vinous.com — VM
Jancis Robinson • jancisrobinson.com — JR
Stephen Tanzer • International Wine Cellar — IWC
Jeb Dunnuck • jebdunnuck.com — JD
Decanter Magazine • decanter.com — D
Jane Anson —Inside Bordeaux • janeanson.com — JA

Expert Wine Reviews & Scores:
Comprehensive Insights from the World’s Top Wine Critics

 

The Wine Advocate (WA) • Influential Wine Criticism for Global Wine Lovers •

The Wine Advocate is one of the most authoritative sources for wine criticism in the world. Founded by renowned critic Robert M. Parker Jr., the publication pioneered the use of the 100-point wine rating system to evaluate wines. Parker’s meticulous and unbiased approach to reviewing wines has had a profound impact on the global wine market, especially on regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Rhone Valley. His high ratings can drastically influence a wine’s market value and popularity, making The Wine Advocate a trusted source for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Today, a team of professional wine reviewers continues to uphold Parker’s high standards, offering detailed tasting notes and expert opinions across a wide range of wine-producing regions. Visit The Wine Advocate for the latest wine reviews and industry insights.

Wine Spectator (WS) • Comprehensive Wine Reviews, Industry News, and Lifestyle Features •

Wine Spectator is a leading publication that covers not just wine reviews, but also industry news, lifestyle features, and food pairings with wine. Since its establishment in 1976, Wine Spectator has been one of the most respected magazines in the world of wine. It provides in-depth tasting notes and wine ratings using a 100-point system, covering wines from regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Napa Valley, Tuscany, and beyond. The publication also highlights the human stories behind winemakers and vineyard owners, offering a rich narrative to accompany its critical assessments. Wine Spectator’s annual “Top 100 Wines” list is eagerly awaited each year by wine professionals and collectors. Their blend of professional reviews and lifestyle content makes it a go-to for anyone passionate about wine. Visit Wine Spectator for more.

James Suckling (JS) • Straightforward Wine Reviews for Serious Enthusiasts •

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Wine Enthusiast (WE) • Wine Reviews, Buying Guides, and Wine Culture •

Wine Enthusiast is a well-established publication that has been offering expert wine reviews since 1988. The magazine rates thousands of wines each year, using a 100-point scale, and provides accessible reviews for both novice wine drinkers and seasoned collectors. Wine Enthusiast covers a broad range of wine-producing regions, from the major players like France, Italy, and California, to lesser-known areas that are just emerging on the global wine scene. In addition to its reviews, Wine Enthusiast publishes wine buying guides, food and wine pairings, and features on wine-related travel destinations. Its mix of education and entertainment makes it a well-rounded resource for wine lovers. Visit Wine Enthusiast for more.

The Wine Independent (TWI) • A New Standard in Independent Wine Criticism •

The Wine Independent is a fresh and innovative wine publication co-founded by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, former editor-in-chief of The Wine Advocate. The Wine Independent is committed to providing unbiased wine reviews and in-depth commentary on the wine industry. The publication covers a wide variety of wine-producing regions, offering detailed reviews of wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Napa Valley, and more. By focusing on the integrity and transparency of wine criticism, The Wine Independent aims to provide wine lovers with a reliable and authoritative voice. Whether you are a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, The Wine Independent offers a fresh perspective on the wines that matter most. Discover The Wine Independent.

Allen Meadows, Burghound (BH) • The Leading Source for Burgundy Wine Reviews •

Allen Meadows, widely known as Burghound, is considered one of the foremost experts on Burgundy wines. His publication, Burghound, provides exhaustive reviews of wines from Burgundy, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, offering readers an unparalleled depth of knowledge about this prestigious region. Burghound is a go-to resource for collectors, investors, and anyone deeply interested in Burgundy, with Allen’s detailed terroir analysis and vintage reviews standing out as some of the most comprehensive in the world. His reviews emphasize the subtle differences in terroir and vintage, making them essential reading for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of Burgundy wines. Visit Burghound to explore more.

Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine (CGCW) • California’s Premier Wine Review Publication •

Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine, or CGCW, has been a trusted source of California wine reviews since 1974. The guide focuses exclusively on California wines, offering insights into both established wine-growing regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma, as well as emerging areas within the state. CGCW uses a straightforward 3-star rating system that is designed to be consumer-friendly while still delivering detailed and informative reviews. Whether you are exploring California Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, or lesser-known varietals, CGCW offers expert guidance for understanding the full breadth of the California wine industry. Explore Connoisseur’s Guide for more.

Wine & Spirits (W&S) • Wine Reviews with a Focus on Food Pairings and Sustainability •

Wine & Spirits is a highly respected magazine that has been offering in-depth wine reviews and features since 1982. Known for its panel-based tasting methodology, Wine & Spirits provides highly reliable and consistent wine ratings, covering all the major wine regions across the globe. What sets Wine & Spirits apart is its focus on how wine interacts with food and its commitment to sustainability in the wine industry. Each issue features wine and food pairing guides and highlights sustainable practices in viticulture, making it an essential resource for both wine professionals and eco-conscious wine consumers. Visit Wine & Spirits for more.

The Tasting Panel (TP) • Wine, Spirits, and Beer Reviews for Beverage Professionals •

The Tasting Panel is a trade-focused publication that offers expert reviews of wines, spirits, and beer. It is particularly valuable for professionals in the beverage industry, including sommeliers, buyers, and distributors, as it covers emerging trends and market shifts in the wine and spirits industry. The Tasting Panel’s reviews are highly respected for their precision and insight, with a strong focus on identifying quality and value in both established brands and new players. The publication also explores the intersection of wine, spirits, and food, making it a well-rounded resource for professionals looking to stay ahead in the market. Visit The Tasting Panel for more.

Antonio Galloni, Vinous (VM) • Comprehensive Wine Reviews and Educational Resources •

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Jancis Robinson (JR) • One of the World’s Most Respected Wine Writers •

Jancis Robinson is an internationally recognized wine critic, writer, and author. Her website, JancisRobinson.com, is one of the most comprehensive online resources for wine reviews, covering regions from around the globe. Robinson’s tasting notes are widely respected for their clarity and depth, and she is known for her encyclopedic knowledge of wine. In addition to wine reviews, Robinson is the author of several influential books, including “The Oxford Companion to Wine,” which has become a cornerstone of wine education. Visit Jancis Robinson for expert wine reviews.

Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar (IWC) • No-Nonsense Wine Criticism •

Stephen Tanzer founded International Wine Cellar and is known for his unpretentious and honest approach to wine criticism. Tanzer’s concise reviews offer deep insights into the quality and character of wines, with a focus on regions like Burgundy, Bordeaux, and California. His journal has long been respected for its integrity and refusal to follow hype, focusing instead on delivering clear and balanced wine evaluations. Tanzer’s work has been influential in shaping the understanding of terroir-driven wines. Learn More about Stephen Tanzer.

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) • Wine Critic with a Focus on Rhône and California Wines •

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Decanter Magazine (D) • A Leading British Wine Publication •

Decanter is a British wine magazine that has been providing expert wine reviews and features since 1975. Known for its rigorous tasting panels and professional reviews, Decanter covers all the major wine-producing regions in the world. The magazine’s Decanter World Wine Awards is one of the most prestigious wine competitions globally, attracting entries from thousands of wineries each year. Decanter’s comprehensive wine reviews, articles on winemakers, and exploration of viticulture trends make it an essential resource for wine professionals and enthusiasts alike. Visit Decanter for more.

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