Long Shadows Vintners 2017 Saggi Red Wine, Columbia Valley, $60

Vintage after vintage, this Super Tuscan-style approach — which emerged from the friendship that Long Shadows founder Allen Shoup forged with Ambrogio and Giovanni Folonari of Ruffino fame — ranks among the most popular from the star-studded lineup. And production of Saggi has increased more than 20 percent since 2014. By its nature, there’s complexity to the Sangiovese-driven blend with Cabernet Sauvignon (24%) and Syrah (14%), and the heady stature of the wine began with a two-pronged approach to the Sangiovese, pulling from Candy Mountain just east of Red Mountain and historic, but slightly cooler Boushey Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. Dick Boushey also grew the Syrah, while Tedd Wildman raised the Cabernet Sauvigon at his StoneTree Vineyard on the steamy Wahluke Slope. The 18 months in 60% new French oak sets the table for cherries, Baker’s chocolate, vanilla and dark toast. Ageable tannins, the inherent acidity of Sangiovese and the finish of cocoa powder combine to make this cellar-worthy or delicious now with a slab of lasagna or osso buco. The wisdom behind this brand explains why the drawing of an owl serves as the logo for Saggi – which is pronounced Saw-GEE.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 2,225 cases

Alcohol: 14.8%

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