Clearwater Canyon Cellars 2013 Selway Red Wine, Lewis-Clark Valley, $38

The Umikers helped spearhead the petition for the Lewis-Clark Valley American Viticultural Area, and they’ve used their most expensive wine to help put the new AVA on the map as the Clearwater Canyon Cellars 2013 Selway earned a double gold at this spring’s San Francisco International Wine Competition. It’s a blend named for a scenic tributary of the Clearwater River, and while the wine focuses on Bordeaux varieties, Merlot (45%), Cabernet Franc (36%), Cabernet Sauvignon (5%) and Malbec (2%), it’s the savvy use of Syrah (12%) that undoubtedly helps woo judges and consumers alike. Aromas of dark plum, cherry cola, Milk Duds and horehound are mirrored on the palate. The plummy midpalate from the Syrah is met by suave tannins, red currant acidity and a chocolaty finish, backed by a pinch of allspice and vanilla. Judges in San Francisco also awarded this wine a whopping 97 points, so club members and gold-medal chasers soon will deplete this delicious sip of history from Idaho. And there’s an extra sense of pride with Umiker Vineyard forming the base, 71 percent, of the blend.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 95 cases

Alcohol: 14.7%

Winery website

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