Joe Hattrup has emerged as one of Washington’s top growers for small-production wines, and Maryhill winemaker Richard Batchelor turned this three-barrel lot into a fascinating example of this lesser-known Bordeaux variety. Classic aromas of red bell pepper, red currant, plums and tobacco also are joined by hints vanilla, cola, black pepper and tomato leaf. Inside, the herbaceous tones continue with fruitiness of blackberry and blueberry. While this is not as big as some examples in Washington state, the tannin structure is pleasing with a finish of raspberry and freshly snapped green bean. This reserve tier, known as The Vineyards, is available to club members as well as those who visit Maryhill’s handsome 1,200-square-foot Reserve Room. The $20 tasting fee, applied towards purchase of three Reserve Room wines, grants access to taste and buy rare wines and releases not available in the main tasting room.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 71 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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