Bainbridge Island cyclist-turned-winemaker Matt Albee has made Mourvèdre from renowned Elephant Mountain Vineyard in the Yakima Valley a focus of his portfolio. This young effort — it’s not yet released — proves that he’s riding on the right path, producing the top example in the judging. There’s ample fruit on the nose with hints of blackcurrant and cassis joined by complex secondary notes of anise, coffee and earthiness. The dark and structured palate is loaded with blackberry and pomegranate, a combination that brings rewarding acidity. Seattleites can walk off the ferry and visit Eleven’s Winslow Way tasting room or drive to Albee’s production facility and forest-shrouded tasting room along Day Road.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 250 cases
Alcohol 13.7%
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