Amavi Cellars 2014 Estate Rosé, Walla Walla Valley, $24
One of the Washington wine industry’s greatest partnerships — vineyard owner Norm McKibben and Swiss-born winemaker Jean-François Pellet — create a Provence-style rose from Cabernet Franc that ranks alongside the Northwest’s best pinks year after year. The blend of 100 percent sustainably farmed Walla Walla Valley estate fruit comes off Waliser and Summit View vineyards and opens with aromas of strawberry shortcake, dusty Van cherry and rhubarb pie. On the palate, it’s reminiscent of strawberry jam on buttered toast, backed by Hermiston watermelon and red currant. Blood orange acidity makes for a tangy and mouthwatering finish that Pellet enjoys with sharp cheeses, flaky white fish and roasted vegetables. He also suggests cellaring at least a couple of bottles to serve with Thanksgiving dinner. These wines are available at gourmet grocers, high-end wine shops and the Walla Walla Valley tasting room as well as the shared space in Woodinville with Pepper Bridge.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 231 cases
Alcohol: 13.9%
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