Introduction
The 2019 Owen Roe Sinister Hand is a robust and complex red blend from the Columbia Valley in Washington State. Owen Roe is known for producing high-quality, expressive wines that capture the unique character of the Pacific Northwest. Sinister Hand is a Rhône-style blend primarily composed of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault, resulting in a wine that is fruit-forward yet layered, with both power and finesse. Named after a colorful legend involving a severed hand, this wine is as intriguing as its story and is a crowd-pleaser with depth and character.

Terrior
The Columbia Valley’s diverse terroir includes arid landscapes, volcanic soils, and a range of elevations, all of which contribute to the unique structure and flavor profile of this wine. The region’s warm, sunny days and cool nights are ideal for Rhône varietals, allowing for full ripeness while preserving acidity. The rocky, mineral-rich soils encourage concentration and complexity, enhancing the blend’s depth and adding a subtle earthiness to the wine. Columbia Valley’s long growing season allows for the development of bold fruit flavors balanced by natural freshness.

Appearance
Deep ruby with purple highlights, showing moderate viscosity, indicative of its medium to full body and richness.

Nose
The nose is bold and inviting, with ripe aromas of blackberry, black cherry, and raspberry. Notes of black pepper, smoked meat, and dried herbs such as thyme and rosemary add complexity. There are also subtle hints of leather, cocoa, and a touch of anise, reflecting the influence of the Syrah and Mourvèdre components.

Palate
On the palate, the Sinister Hand is full-bodied with a lush, velvety texture. Flavors of dark fruit—blackberry, black plum, and cherry—are balanced by earthy undertones and a hint of savory spice. The wine’s acidity is vibrant, lifting the ripe fruit and adding freshness, while the tannins are smooth and well-integrated, providing structure without overwhelming the palate. Oak aging contributes subtle notes of vanilla, toast, and spice that round out the wine’s complexity.

Finish
The finish is long and layered, with lingering flavors of dark fruit, pepper, and a touch of smoky earth. The balanced acidity and polished tannins leave a clean, satisfying aftertaste, with a subtle spiciness that gradually fades.

Overall Impression
The 2019 Owen Roe Sinister Hand is a well-crafted, approachable Rhône-style blend that showcases the potential of Columbia Valley’s terroir. Its rich fruit, layered complexity, and smooth tannins make it an ideal wine for pairing with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, hearty stews, or charcuterie. This wine is drinking beautifully now, but it also has the structure to age gracefully for another 5-7 years.

Published Rankings
Robert Parker Rating: 90
Jeb Dunnuck Rating: 91

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.1%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Owen Roe
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Grape Varietals: Predominantly Grenache, with Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault
Vintage: 2019
Wine Style: Red, Full-Bodied
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel, aged in French oak barrels for around 12 months
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork