Owen Roe 2021 Sinister Hand

The 2021 Sinister Hand from Owen Roe is a compelling Washington Rhône-style red—rich yet balanced, with dark fruit, savoury spice and refined structure. It offers immediate appeal and enough complexity to reward short-term cellaring.

Origins & Craftsmanship

This wine is produced in the Columbia Valley of Washington State, a region known for its warm days and cool nights that allow even ripening for red Rhône-varietals. The “Sinister Hand” bottling is a proprietary blend typically dominated by Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre, crafted by Owen Roe’s winemaking team. The 2021 vintage reflects the winery’s attention to vineyard sourcing, fruit-selection and barrel maturation, aiming to evoke the Southern Rhône style while retaining a distinct Pacific Northwest sense of place.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Rich and inviting—black cherry, blackberry and wild plum open first, followed by hints of lavender, cracked black pepper and smoked herb. Beneath lies subtle underbrush and earthy mineral.
Palate: Medium-to-full-bodied with lush dark fruit core—boysenberry, pomegranate and damson plum—balanced by savoury accents of leather, game meat and dried herbs. Silky tannins and a lively acidity frame the fruit, while spice notes of cloves and white pepper provide depth.
Finish: Long and structured—lingering dark-berry skin, soft liquorice root, tobacco leaf and gently drying oak leave a persistent impression of both power and elegance.

Quick Overview

THE STORY BEHIND THE LABEL: Long ago, pre-dating the 11th century, the families that became modern day O’Neills and O’Reillys were feuding over the land that became their ancestral home. To settle the dispute, a competition was organized and several rowing teams agreed that the first to touch the land, after rowing across the lake, would become ruler of the land. O’Neill’s boat was falling behind so a member of the crew grabbed his own sword, cut off his hand and threw it ashore, and touching first, winning the title to rule the land. The island fortress on this land can still be visited on Lough Oughter in County Cavan."