Casey McClellan, the first in the Walla Walla Valley with a college education in winemaking, continues to embrace Cabernet Franc for his dry rosé program. He farms his own McClellan Estate Vineyard and works with Gamache overlooking the Columbia River north of Pasco, Wash., and den Hoed in the Horse Heaven Hills to grow Cab Franc (82%), Malbec and Petit Verdot for the intended purpose of rosé production. Its light salmon-pink appearance reflects the complete lack of soaking on the grape skins, and the nose broadcasts tropical notes of banana, rhubarb compote and clover honey. Bright flavors of mango, strawberry-rhubarb and raspberry make it versatile for summertime fare. This bottling, in sync with the 30th anniversary of the winery, reflects a subtle brand refresh orchestrated by Napa-based Crimson Wine Group. And it earned a double gold medal and the award for best rosé at the seventh annual Walla Walla Valley Wine Competition, a scholarship fundraiser for College College.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 2,800 cases
Alcohol: 12.9%
Leave a Reply