RAM Cellars 2014 Alder Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $25
Portland-based Rodger Marks, inspired by an experience on Red Mountain at Kiona Vineyards, went onto a winemaking education through Washington State University. His red wine program relies on Alder Ridge Vineyard in Washington’s Horse Heaven Hills, and this work with Cabernet Franc is a product of his debut commercial vintage. A bit of decanting yields aromas of Horse Heaven Hills chalkboard dust, dark cherry, blueberry, toasted oak and horehound earthiness. Long flavors of black raspberry and red plum are met by high-profile bittersweet chocolate tannins, sweet blueberry notes and roasted coffee. Whether it’s at his PDX production facility that is ENSO Winery on Stark Street or his residence across the Columbia River in Washougal, Marks builds it to serve with pasta, poultry or grilled meats.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 50 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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