Amavi Cellars 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $32
Swiss-born winemaker Jean-François Pellet first gained famed for his work with Pepper Bridge Winery, so the McKibben and Goff families subsequently brought him as a partner on this sister winery three years later in 2001. While Amavi does venture beyond Bordeaux varieties, the work done with Cabernet Sauvignon remains exemplary, and it spans six estate vineyards — Les Collines, Octave, Seven Hills, Summit View, Pepper Bridge and Goff. Aromas of sweet oak, blueberry, lilac and lavender lead to rich and smooth flavors of black currant, blueberry and chocolate. There’s some juiciness with pomegranate alongside firm plum skin tannins. Suggested pairings include a T-bone alongside grilled portobello mushroom and cassoulet. These wines are available not only at Walla Walla vineyard but also at the Amavi/Pepper Bridge tasting room in Woodinville.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 5,662 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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