Auclair Winery 2012 96 Cedars Red Wine, Red Mountain, $26
Woodinville winemaker Charlie Auclair uses his 96 Cedars tier as his second label, yet his declassified blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (42%), Cabernet Franc (23%), Petit Verdot (8%) and Merlot serves as a remarkable introduction and a bargain alongside many Bordeaux blends from Red Mountain. Alluring and sweet oak aromas join ripe red currant, dark plum and dried strawberry, backed by black licorice, thyme and a savory note of black olive. On the palate, Marionberry, black currant and cocoa powder are delivered with sandy tannins that expand across the palate, leading to a finish of blueberry skins and ground savory. This also is his largest production wine, so it may still be available at his Warehouse District tasting room, which is open most Saturday afternoons.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 410 cases
Alcohol: 14.3%
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