Ancient Lakes fascinates as young Washington wine region

Beaumont Cellars 2013 Cabernet Franc, Ancient Lakes of Columbia Valley, $29

Pete Beaumont has established a reputation with this red Bordeaux grape in the cooler Ancient Lakes region, and the Quincy, Wash., winemaker presents a mouth-filling Cabernet Franc. The theme is one of cherry, red currant and blackberry with notes of forest floor and crushed herbs. Bright acidity and well-managed tannins create a wonderfully long finish. Suggested pairings include robust meats, aged cheeses or flatbreads. For the second consecutive vintage, this wine earned a gold medal at the North Central Washington Wine Awards.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 90 cases

Alcohol: 13.5%

Winery website