International Wine Report - (98 Points)
The scintillating 2021 Spiders from Mars Syrah from the incredible winemaking team at Sleight of Hand impresses on every level. Furnishing an intense nose of boysenberry, black plum skin, incense, grapefruit pith, smoked herbs crushed black olives, and bacon fat it falls elegantly across the palate with this interesting spice and saline driven component that hits the finish and doesn't let go. Tannins are supple but still present on this wine that should age well for the next 15 years. Highly recommended and editor's choice. 2023-2038
Owen Bargreen - (96 Points)
The 2021 'Spiders From Mars' is the finest edition of this wine that I have tasted. This Syrah is sourced from the from the broken basalt-laden 'Ziggy Stardust Block' at the Elevation Vineyard. This beauty was stored for 20 months in French oak barrels, and displays a dizzying aromatic range from volcanic ash to potpourri, beef drippings, Kalamata olives and shades of boysenberry pie. The flavors are just as good, as the bright acidity and soft mouthfeel really drive this forward. This is irresistible stuff to consume in its youth with its bright red fruits, citrus rind and floral notes and savory/salty/stony underpinnings. Drink 2023-2031
Jeb Dunnuck - (95 Points)
Coming from the estate vineyard on the upper North Fork of the Walla Walla Valley (which is in Oregon), the
2021 Syrah Spiders From Mars is one smoky, meaty, exotic Syrah offering tons of plummy, blue-like fruits as well as toasted nuts, cured meats, sandalwood, and peppery, herbal nuances. Plush, medium to full-bided, and beautifully textured, with ripe, polished tannins, this is a singular beauty to enjoy any time over the coming 10-12 years.
Vinous - (96 Points)
The 2021 Syrah Spiders From Mars is a veritable spice box, bursting from the glass with an array of incense, garrigue, black olives and red plums. Soft and supple on the palate, this comes across as savory, nearly salty in character. Sour citrus contrasts tart wild berry fruits that saturate. Inner violet and lavender tones resonate as tangerine and blackberry hints mingle with gently grippy tannins through the long yet remarkably fresh finale. This is 100% whole-cluster fermentation and all- neutral wood. Wow. While still needing time, the Spiders from Mars is off-the-charts delicious.
Wine Enthusiast - (95 Points)
This is a 100% whole-cluster show-stopper. Just like the real-like Spiders from Mars, the wine's firm tannins replicate Trevor Bolder's thumping bass beat while electrified acidity mimics a Mick Ronson guitar riff. Aromas and flavors of blackberries, mocha, wet basalt and allspice fill the arena. Can't wait for the encore.
Sean Sullivan's NW Wine Report - (94 Points)
Fruit for this wine comes from the fractured basalt soils on a 45 degree slope located near the N. Fork of the Walla Walla River and planted to meter by meter spacing. It was foot-stomped and fermented 100% whole cluster before aging 20 months on the lees in neutral French oak. It's aromatically expressive, with notes of soot, freshly chopped parsley, crushed flower, smoked meat, green olive, and plentiful stem notes. the palate is action-packed with lively, lower alcohol but quite intense fruit and savory flavors while remaining fleet of foot. It persists for 30-plus seconds on the finish. There's impressive acid and tannin structure around it all. It's a standout, though not for all tastes, leaning into the green and savory side of the variety. Enjoy from 2026 to 2033. 13.2% Alcohol
