Washington Malbec grows up: 7 to try

Daven Lore Winery 2011 Malbec, Yakima Valley, $28

In the past few years, Gordon Taylor has become a welterweight champion vintner in Washington state, pound-for-pound one of the region’s best for the precise and consistent work with his small lots overlooking Prosser. Yet another example is this Washington Malbec, which came from Crawford and Lonesome Spring Ranch vineyards because his normal source in the Horse Heaven Hills froze out. He created aromas of blackberry, Marionberry jam on toast, plum, Jolly Rancher grape candy, licorice and a hint of charcoal. There’s a swirling of blackberry and president plum flavors that brings lots of food-friendly acidity, and his suggested pairings include BBQ ribs, lasagna and beef empanadas.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 123 cases

Alcohol: 13.5%

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