Tempranillo enjoying growing fame in Northwest

Columbia Winery 2013 Tempranillo, Horse Heaven Hills, $35

This big red grape variety from the Iberian Peninsula shines in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s found a home in Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills. Columbia winemaker Sean Hails harvested this early ripener in mid-September and his use of both French and American barrels shows a light hand with new oak – just 11 percent. That allows for a robust and stylistic nose of black currant and dark plum with notes of white pepper, horehound and roasted meat. On the plate, there’s a mouth-filling delivery of plum and pomegranate, backed by tannins that provide plenty of grip. Enjoy with marbled meat.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 950 cases

Alcohol: 14.3%

Winery website