At one point, Weinbau Vineyard on the east edge of the Wahluke Slope was a part of and adjacent to the second-largest wine production facility in Washington state when the Langguth family from Germany’s Mosel region launched a New World Riesling program. Within five years, the project failed, Snoqualmie Vineyards took over the facility in 1986, and a young Charlie Hoppes served as one of the winemakers. A quarter of a century later, with Sagemoor Farms owning and managing the vines, Hoppes crafted this Cab Franc for the Hamiltons. His use of 40% new French oak leads to aromas of fresh caramel, chai spices and dark toast in front of black cherry and black currant jam. Inside, it’s a lighter-styled Cab Franc with no hint of leafiness. Instead, it’s round and rich with those dark cherries and currants, which swirl with juicy acidity that stays nicely ahead of supple tannins, leading to a finish of blackberry compote.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 120 cases
Alcohol: 14.3%
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