Precept CEO Andrew Browne, a native of Spokane, Wash., continues to work with Waterbrook winemaker John Freeman on the flagship wine for the Browne family brand. It’s built on the shoulders of Merlot (38%), Cabernet Sauvignon (32%) and Malbec (11%), primarily from estate sites such as Alder Ridge, Canyon Vineyard Ranch, Skyfall and Waterbrook Estate, with contributions from historic plantings Klipsun on Red Mountain and Weinbau on the Wahluke Slope. Their choice of 35% new French oak barrels leads to the nose of dark toast, cinnamon and vanilla with black cherry, Craisins and horehound. It is spicy, juicy and leathery on the taut palate as huckleberry, pomegranate and boysenberry make for a long finish with black pepper. Suggested pairings include rosemary and peppercorn-crusted pork loin, lamb burgers or a grilled portobello sandwich.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 7,182 cases
Alcohol: 13.9%
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