L’Ecole No 41 2012 Seven Hills Vineyard Estate Perigee, Walla Walla Valley, $50
Marty Clubb began working with Bordeaux varieties from 230-acre Seven Hills Vineyard near Milton-Freewater, Ore., back in 1993, and he and winemaker Mike Sharon take a Left Bank mentality to this popular blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (55%), Merlot (21%), Cabernet Franc (14%), Malbec (5%) and Petit Verdot. It’s a remarkable example that opens with a nose of plum, blackberry and black currant that’s backed by chocolate and sweet herbs. Inside, there’s a delicious core of dark fruit that carries a smooth theme of blackberry, plum and light chocolate. A pinch of moist earth and a drop of vanilla extract add complexity and balance to the finish. While this recently sold through at the Lowden tasting room, ask your wine merchant for help in tracking down one of the Northwest’s most well-known, age-worthy reds.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,040 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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