This is the oldest of the Dufenhorst family’s vineyard holdings, and those driving up to play Bear Mountain Golf Course will pass by Clos CheValle, a site established in 2004 overlooking the south shore of Lake Chelan and home to eight cool-climate varieties. Homegrown winemaker Shane Collins, a native of Manson, took over at Rocky Pond Winery as these clusters were forming in 2017. It spent six months in stainless steel then a year in bottle, which locked in the aromas and flavors of Lemonhead candy, lime zest and jasmine. And while the listed residual sugar is nearly 1.3%, the finish of quinine and dried apricot keeps the RS nicely in check and makes this a refreshing tonic. Suggested pairings include warmed new potato salad with bacon and chives, pancetta and egg pizza or all things spicy.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 94 cases
Alcohol: 12%
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