Hillary Sjolund’s winemaking helped DiStefano earn Wine Press Northwest’s 2008 Washington Winery of the Year award, and she launched her own brand not long after leaving the Wooindville winery. This blend is a bit unusual with its focus on Petit Verdot (66%) from Blue Mountain Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley and Merlot (34%) off Red Mountain Vineyard, but the common thread is that both sites are owned by Mike Corliss. The nose may have you believing there’s some Syrah in here too, because of it’s dark blackberry and huckleberry pie aromas, joined by black licorice, cardamom, violets and cream. Mouth-filling tannins take an early bow with boysenberry and chocolate flavors, but it is backed by good richness on the midpalate and pie cherries in the finish. Enjoy with barbecued ribs or duck confit. It earned a silver medal at the 2014 Seattle Wine and Food Experience Wine Competition, and the wines are available by contacting the winemaker at hillary@sonoriswines.com or 530-570-5254 or going through Cru Selections.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 74 cases
Alcohol: 14.8%
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