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Mercer Estates 2016 Small Lot Petit Verdot, Horse Heaven Hills, $32

A product of Jessica Munnell’s final vintage as head winemaker for the Mercer family, Prosser native Jeremy Santo — a fellow Washington State University graduate — took these 18 barrels across the finish line in fine fashion. Spice Cabinet Vineyard’s reputation for Bordeaux varieties shines through once more, and the 50% new French oak barrels impart aromas of baking spice and vanilla bourbon to along with Marionberry and blackcurrant candy. It’s akin to a fist in a velvet glove with the drinking profile that’s inky, rich and big as dark purple fruit tones make this a quaffer for those who favor bold wines. Suggested pairings include a New York strip or a juicy burger or a dark chocolate brownie.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 431 cases
Alcohol: 13.9%
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