65. Otis Kenyon 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $36
The Kenyon/Dunbar family learned early on of the resiliency of Stellar Vineyard near Milton-Freewater, Ore., when it was among those to withstand the Walla Walla Valley’s killing freeze of 2004. This site in the newly established Rocks District combined with fruit from historic Seven Hills Vineyard for a remarkably balanced Cab under the hands of veteran winemaker Dave Stephenson. There’s a whiff of The Rocks influence with a savory and minerally profile that includes black cherry, elderberry, buttered toast, fresh sage and mint. Its medium — and perfect — structure of tannin and lifting acidity allows for full appreciation of elegant dark purple fruit flavors. This merited a gold medal at both the 2015 Seattle Wine and Food Experience Wine Competition as well as the 2015 Walla Walla Valley Wine Competition, and their wines are available both in downtown Walla Walla and Woodinville.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 614 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
Leave a Reply