Mercer Estates 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Horse Heaven Hills, $24
Three of the Mercer family’s sites in the Horse Heaven Hills — Big Tee Pee, Princeton and acclaimed Spice Cabinet — and the first of three historically hot vintages contribute the Cabernet Sauvignon (75%), Syrah (15%) and Merlot for this bold bottling. Smoky coffee, Aussie-style black licorice, black currant and mocha transition to a juicy delivery of red plums, red cherry and cassis flavors. Smooth and rich tannins usher out a finish of blueberry, pomegranate and blueberry. Production doubled from the classic 2012 vintage, so there’s more to love with this bottling. It is readily available at the family’s tasting room in Prosser.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 4,987 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
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