Larry Oates established his winery overlooking both the Yakima River and the Old Inland Empire Highway, and the primary sources for his program are a stone’s throw away – Buoy Vineyard and Rivers Bend Vineyard. His latest blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (55%) and Syrah from there is a real crowd-pleaser, starting with fanciful aromas of dark blueberry, black cherry, Mon Cheri candy, toasty oak, tar, root beer, chalkboard dust and forest floor. The drink is reminiscent of blackberry pie juice followed by black cherry, a dash of cocoa powder and blueberry jam. “This old dog got it done” last fall at the Grand Harvest Awards, earning best of class. Oates also uses this wine to help support canine causes such as Pet Over Population Prevention, the Humane Society, Mikey’s Chance and the Prison Pet Partnership.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 80 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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