Art den Hoed is one of the biggest characters in the Yakima Valley, and he’s also among the best growers in the state. A longtime pal of Prosser winemaker Gordon Taylor, den Hoed established this block of late-ripening Mourvedre in 2003, and Daven Lore began producing a vineyard-designate Mourvèdre — thanks to den Hoed — in 2011. The latest edition is a fun, lively and spicy red that opens with aromas of fruit punch, dried cherries and apricot, mint, pipe tobacco and the variety’s telltale accent of black pepper. Dark cherry and cassis flavors follow, framed by supple tannins and a lingering raspberry finish. It’s a bit reminiscent of a warm-vintage Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Dundee Hills, and if you aren’t drinking Rhône-style reds from Washington, then you are missing out. Taylor enjoys this with cassoulet, Coq au Vin, rack of lamb and — naturally — pepper-rubbed steak.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 110 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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