There’s some charming symmetry to this historic downtown Spokane winery, which began in earnest inside the garage of attorney Greg Lipsker and has reached delicious heights inside what was an automobile garage nearly a century ago. Lipsker, fellow lawyer Michael White and their third partner – young winemaker Tyler Walters – constantly point toward the relationship with storied Bacchus Vineyard at Sagemoor Farms as critical to their success with Cabernet Franc. And year after year, this remains one of the most decorated examples of Cab Franc in competitions across the country. It’s agreeably herbal in the nose as green bell pepper leads to dusty blackcurrant. Inside, there’s boldness to the dark fruited flavors of black cherry alongside plum skin tannins that reflect the influence of Cabernet Sauvigon (15%). On the back end, there’s a touch of tar and lingering pomegranate acidity. Understandably, it earned a double gold medal this spring at one of the oldest judgings in the U.S. – the INDY International Wine Competition on the campus of Purdue University.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 335 cases
Alcohol: 15.1%
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