93. Tamarack Cellars 2011 Firehouse Red, Columbia Valley, $16
Every year, owner Ron Coleman crafts this tremendous “Tuesday night wine” with the same care as reds that cost two to three times as much. This vintage includes 11 (!) grape varieties, including Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Petit Verdot, Carménère, Grenache and Counoise. What, couldn’t he find some Tempranillo? All of this was aged in 40% new French and American oak. The result is a smooth, delicious wine with aromas and flavors of caramel, raspberry jam, black cherry and espresso, all backed with moderate tannins for a memorable finish.
Production: 11,500 cases
Alcohol: 13.8%
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