Biomedical engineer Rob Entrekin continues his recent string of success as a winemaker in Woodinville, Wash., with this Merlot from underrated Gamache Vineyard north of Pasco. Named after the French term for “well made,” the pick was made Nov. 4 — quite late compared with the past three hot vintages. The wine subsequently spent 20 months in a program of 100% new oak, a 50/50 split between French and Russian. Its nose is enjoyable with hints of dark plum, blueberry and caramel with sweet herbs, cocoa powder and earthiness. Inside, there’s a delivery of dark cherry, black currant and more plum, which leads to blueberry skin tannin and pomegranate juice on the midpalate. A pinch of baking spice leads to a lovely and long finish.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 99 cases
Alcohol: 14.4%
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