Launched by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates in 2005 as a restaurant-only brand, 14 Hands might be Washington state’s biggest success story of the past decade. This reserve tier by winemaker Keith Kenison, kicked off with the 2009 vintage, shows no signs of slowing down. Aromas of Bing cherry, Marionberry, Cherry Coke and black peppercorns include moist earth and sarsaparilla. The entry is luscious with gorgeous flavors of black cherry and blackberry, backed by a juicy midpalate, and finished with baking spices and chocolaty tannins. Suggested fare includes slow-smoked brisket, grilled rib eye steak or a sun dried mushroom tart. Look for this at the 14 Hands tasting room, which opened this spring in Prosser.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 300 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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