One of the great pleasures of doing this website is the opportunity to see more deeply into any one region's wines. Sometimes it's the small, off-the-radar producers who are doing some of the most interesting, cutting edge work. I can count on one hand the number of Oregon Carignans I've ever had, so this is an especially fun discovery. Aromatic, ruby red, replete with scents of marionberry pie, this is a mouthfilling wine that absolutely charms from start to finish. It's pure varietal from organically grown fruit, nicely balanced with sassy acids, ripe tannins and moderate alcohol. 71 cases; 13.6%; $38 (Rogue Valley)

https://www.longwalkvineyard.com/wines

If anyone is making a better under-$30 Syrah in the Northwest I haven't tasted it. This is the lowest-priced Syrah in Quady's excellent lineup, a sappy, snappy bowlful of fresh-squeezed black cherries. The accents of pipe tobacco, anise, orange peel and dark chocolate are lightly applied and well-integrated. This drinks just fine as soon as the cork is pulled, but the open bottle can be finished on the second day with equal pleasure.

1028 cases; 14.2%; $27 (Rogue Valley)

https://quadynorth.orderport.net/product-details/0638/2019-Syrah-4--2a-750ml-142pct

The Flagship Syrah is held back for additional bottle age prior to release but this could benefit from more. The flavors mix brambly berries with juicy citrus; there's even a crisp hint of green apple. Let it breathe! I tasted the 2014 version of this wine just a couple of weeks ago and found it was right now drinking at a spectacular level. Six to ten years past vintage is often optimal for top-tier Syrahs. Drink this 2025 to 2030.

104 cases; 14.4%; $75 (Applegate Valley)

https://quadynorth.orderport.net/product-details/0588/2018-Syrah-Flagship-750ml-144pct