Cadaretta 2013 Windthrow Red Wine, Walla Walla Valley, $60
Washington winemakers continue to pursue red blends based on Rhone varieties, and Kendall Mix adds to the discussion the latest edition of Windthrow, a creation built upon Syrah (76%) with layers of Mourvèdre (17%) and Cinsault. Once again, we can marvel at the influence of Tedd Wildman’s StoneTree Vineyard as the Wahluke Slope site contributed 58% of the final blend, followed by Cadaretta’s estate Southwind Vineyard (18%) in the SeVein project of the Walla Walla Valley, Alder Ridge (15%) and Wallula (7%) — two sites in the Horse Heaven Hills to the east. The enticing nose is reminiscent of a brambleberry punch with plums, dark cherries and sweet herbs in the background. Marionberry and Damson plums lead the dark profile of flavors, backed by juicy acidity, sinewy tannins and a finish of Western serviceberry.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 216 cases
Alcohol: 14.8%
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