Mike Lempriere served as an early and important gatekeeper of history with his website — The Definitive Guide to the Winers of Washington State — then he entered the world of commercial winemaking in 2004 after moving to Bainbridge Island. He produces a number of seafood-worthy wines using grapes from the Puget Sound, including those from his own vineyard, but here he continues to champion the cause for Lemberger. It’s a great example using fruit from Kiona Vineyards, following a theme of black cherry, blueberry and cocoa powder with an inky structure that offers more heft than most. There’s a backing of great food-friendly acidity and an admirable approach with alcohol. This earned a silver medal at the 2015 Savor NW Wine Awards, yet it may have deserved better.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 71 cases
Alcohol: 12%
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