Boise native Melanie Krause trained with Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in Washington before returning home to make wine with Idaho fruit, and this blend of Sawtooth, Skyline and Williamson vineyards is a great example of Snake River Valley’s future with this Rhône variety. Her use of 30% new oak allows for aromas and flavors of dusty Marionberry, black cherry and pomegranate with fresh-baked chocolate brownies in the back. Raspberry acidity and refined tannins make this quaffer now, but she predicts it won’t begin to reach its peak until 2018. Suggested pairings include barbecued meats, earthy mushroom risotto and salmon with brown sugar and soy.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 600 cases
Alcohol: 14.3%
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