Pacifica Wines 2011 Evan’s Collection Meritage, Washington, $33

Fresno State-trained viticulturalist Rich Garvin has been managing vineyards in Hood River since the turn of the century, but he began working in 2010 with New Zealand vintners Matthew Rutherford and Philip Jones. Their collaboration in this Bordeaux blend, which leads with Cabernet Sauvignon, taps into acclaimed Walla Walla Valley sites Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills. Their second vintage for this wine, named for Jones’ son, features a theme of red cherry, ripe strawberry and cedar, backed by dark chocolate for a delicious finish. This fall, it picked up a silver medal at the 2014 Columbia Gorge Wine Competition.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 600 cases

Alcohol: 14%

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