Cerebella Wines 2013 Malbec, Walla Walla Valley, $30
Robb Zimmel’s first commercial vintage at Zimmel-Unruh Cellars includes his Cerebella brand, and the recent graduate of the Washington State University-Tri-Cities wine program is off to a jammy start with this red Bordeaux variety from the Walla Walla Valley. The former Army flight medic presents Malbec with expressive aromas of black cherry, fig, poached plum and blackberry that are joined by black olive, dried herbs, caramel and molasses. The fingerprint of two years in French oak also shows on the palate with flavors of dark chocolate amid the cherry and blueberry. Its pleasing texture offers moderate tannins, good acidity and nice length, finishing with a pinch of mint. Suggested pairings include Osso Buco, and this wine is available at The Grant House in Vancouver, Wash., and in the Tri-Cities at Cheese Louise, Italianos and Wine Notes.
Rating: Recommended
Production: 69 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
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