SYZYGY

OK, you’re having a dream and you’ve been called upon to spell “syzygy” in a national spelling bee. Phew, you breathe a sigh of relief, because you are a big fan of SYZYGY! Moreover, as you spell out s-y-z-y-g-y, you recall that the word is defined as the alignment of earth, moon, and sun. Such was the inspiration of winemaker Zach Brettler when he launched SYZYGY in 2002—the convergence of different Walla Walla and Columbia Valley vineyards and varieties to create the perfect blend of red wine. It’s also in keeping with Zach’s other passion — he’s a astronomy hobbyist.

Zach gets his grapes from a who’s who of Washington grape growers: Conner Lee, Minnick Hills, Sagemoor, Stone Valley, Spofford Station, and Seven Hills. Of note is the fact that he purchases his grapes by the acre and not by the ton. That’s an unusual approach. By purchasing his grapes by the acre, Zach is clearly communicating his focus on high-quality grapes, sacrificing tonnage for quality. Grape growers “green prune” to leave fewer clusters on the vine, thus ensuring the remaining grapes get the vine’s attention. Although this lowers the yield per acre, what remains are intensely flavored grapes.

SYZYGY’s distinctive orange-and-blue bottle label may indicate that the wine inside is 100 percent syrah or 100 percent cabernet sauvignon, and that it is, but it’s actually a blend of the same grape variety but from various vineyards. The goal is syzygy — an optimal blend of grapes from different sources to achieve just the right balance, taste, and finish. And it’s more than a wine style that Zach brings to his craft; it’s also a philosophy that speaks to a cosmic harmony of sorts. Something seems to be in alignment, because Zach’s blends have gone on to receive high acclaim from wine connoisseurs. Check out his bold but oh-so-velvety red blend “Saros.” The 2006 “Saros” achieved a 92 rating by none other than Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.

SYZYGY’s tasting room/winery is located near the end of Boeing Avenue in a former military barracks. The original golden-colored hardwood floors are a distinctive complement to the orange walls. It gives the room an airy feel. It’s a pleasurable space meant to be shared with friends, family, and lovers — it feels like syzygy.

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  Order the book!

  SYZYGY was featured in WineTrails of Walla Walla as part of the Walla Walla Airport WineTrail on page 490!

• 

  Order the book!

  SYZYGY was featured in WineTrails of Washington as part of the Walla Walla Airport WineTrail on page 490!