All three estate plantings factor into this robust, fruit-driven bottling of Cabernet Sauvignon that includes Merlot (18%) and Cabernet Franc (4%). Eleanor’s Vineyard near Pepper Bridge Winery forms the foundation, but Octave and young Sanitella, both in the vaunted SeVein project near Milton-Freewater, Ore., play significant roles. While it spent 18 months in French oak, less than 10% of the program was new wood, explaining the fruit-forward aromas of strawberry pie, boysenberry jam and Beech-Nut Cherry Stripe gum. Across the palate, it’s bold up front with blackcurrant and plum skin tannins, a pinch of baking spice, and a tangy finish of Craisin, Montmorency cherry and pomegranate seed. Suggested pairings include Caprio Cellars chef Ian Hamilton’s Castoldi Farm Beet Agrodolce.
Rating: Recommended — 87 points
Production: 340 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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