The Hansens planted Cougar Hills Vineyard in the southern end of the Walla Walla Valley, not far from venerable Windrow Vineyard, and Cabernet Franc is a significant part of the program at Cougar Crest. In fact, they’ve also planted some of the winter-hardy Bordeaux variety at their Rock Bottom Vineyard, which was established in 2012. Cougar Hills earns the spotlight for now, and the nose brings classic hints of sweet herb with plenty of black cherry, chocolate and cedary notes. The dark blue fruit akin to black cherry, blackberry and blueberry are joined by baking spices as sandy tannins and a long finish make this a rewarding drink. In addition to its winery/tasting room on Frenchtown Road west of Walla Walla, Cougar Crest also operates tasting rooms in Spokane’s Cork District, Woodinville and Dundee, Ore.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,058 cases
Alcohol: 14.1%
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