Best Buy! There’s another Charles and Charles tandem the Pacific Northwest wine industry — Doug Charles of Compass Wines in Anacortes and Red Mountain winemaker Charlie Hoppes of Fidelitas. The distinguished wineshop owner entered into a partnership with Hoppes to create a line of wines that would work with good ol’ American barbecue grub, and they’ve lit the match on something special. Their third year of production continues with a blend that leads with Cabernet Franc and includes Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Whiffs of blackberry jam and black cherry include blackstrap molasses, bittersweet chocolate and some char. There’s remarkable complexity with its brooding black fruit theme of cherry, blackberry and black currant, chased by a rich midpalate and sandy tannins that slowly lengthen. Suggested fare includes grilled meats and pork roast. Initially, these wines were limited to the Compass shop as part of its ded.reckoning program, but distribution is becoming more widespread.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 500 cases
Alcohol: 14%
Love this wine! Having a BBQ themed wedding next month and serving this wine (and its white counterpart) at the reception.