Nina Buty’s Rockgarden Estate Vineyard in the soon-to-be-established The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater American Viticultural Area factors into this blend that could also be labeled as Syrah (77%) in most states. Cabernet Sauvignon (14%) and Cabernet Franc from acclaimed Horse Heaven Hills sites Champoux and Phinny Hill play minor but not insignificant roles in the hands of her winemaker, Chris Dowsett. The nose opens with black cherry and raspberry, backed by nice toast, black licorice, white pepper, herbal and menthol notes from that Cab Franc. Flavors feature red cherries and plum, a steady stream of ground coffee beans, good stability of moderate tannin with acidity and a pinch of Herbs de Provence in the finish.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 880 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
Leave a Reply