This Duckhorn property is headquartered in Walla Walla, but it was interest Red Mountain fruit that helped prompt the Napa-based group to plant a flag in Washington state. There’s an intriguing inclusion of Mourvèdre (2%) and Syrah (1%) to the final blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (84%), Merlot (11%) and Petit Verdot, and the 20-month barrel program features 42% new French oak. Traditionally, rising star Quintessence Vineyard plays a major role in winemaker Brian Rudin’s sourcing of Cab for this flagship bottling. Here’s an eminently approachable Cab off Red Mountain, opening with aromas of dusty red currant, plum and boysenberry with a misting of lime oil. Red fruit tones and richness take center stage as Bing cherry and boysenberry juiciness are carried out with a lick of Red Swedish Fish candy.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 21,755 cases
Alcohol: 14.7%
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