This late-ripening red grape native to the Rhône Valley has no trouble finishing up on the Wahluke Slope, one of the hottest growing regions in Washington wine country. Jeremy Santo, a native of Prosser and product of Washington State University, pulled the trigger Oct. 28 on this lot from Milbrandt-owned Northridge Vineyard. Ripeness achieved 26.5 Brix, and after seven days in stainless steel, he sent the free-run juice into French oak barrels, 10% of them new, for 16 months. That helps account for aromas of Almond Joy with Bing cherry, black pepper and mustard seed. Its creamy mouth feel allows for flavors of black cherry, boysenberry and bittersweet chocolate, which are ushered out by a juicy pomegranate finish. This wines are available online as well as their Leavenworth tasting room, which is open seven days a week.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 218 cases
Alcohol: 15%
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