College Cellars alumna Tanya Woodley recently doubled production for SuLei Cellars, and the success of her entry-level Roller Girl Jammer Red is powering much of that growth. She admits that her goal for this blend of Merlot (43%), Cabernet Franc (31%) and Cabernet Sauvignon is one of approachability. It finds the mark, thanks in part to vineyards Les Collines and Lodmell. The nose packs a punch of cherries and chocolate, backed by plum and strawberry, while the Cabernet Franc comes across as cedar and Swisher Sweets cigarillo. On the palate, it’s rich and fruit-forward with flavors of strawberry-rhubarb pie and cherry juice. Underlying mild tannins, a pinch of spice and raspberry acidity make this a tasty pasta wine meant, and it’s priced for everyday enjoyment. Two vintages ago, production of Jammer Red stood at a modest 65 cases. This bottling is seven times that size. In Seattle, look for these at the QFC Harvard Market on Broadway, Vino Verite and the Leschi Market.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 450 cases
Alcohol: 13.9%
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