The Puryears pull from their eponymous vineyard for most of their top wines, but they also own this site, the oldest in the Rattlesnake Hills American Viticultural Area. Established in 1968 at 1,200 feet elevation for Ste. Michelle by future Congressman Sid Morrison and his family’s fruit company, it became part of the Bonair estate holdings in 2001. These vines now struggle, producing less than 2 tons per acre for Massachusetts-born winemaker Bill Mechem, and his two-year barrel program of new French oak creates spice and vanilla within the theme of bittersweet chocolate, dark cherry, black currant and saddle leather. Robust tannins and a finish of Earl Grey tea give this plenty of staying power while working well with a slab of prime rib.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 105 cases
Alcohol: 13.9%
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