A year ago, Bill and Candace Swayne purchased Chelan Ridge Winery. In addition to that label created by previous winemaker Lynn Munneke, the Swaynes also have launched this tier and hired Chelan Valley winemaker Jeff Crowder. Petit Verdot was a very strong category at this year’s Platinum, and the Swaynes can boast theirs was the highest-ranking PV. Born on the Royal Slope, this often assertive red Bordeaux releases aromas of dark cherries, sweet cedar and a potpourri. Its palate is a beautiful concentration of black cherry and plums with notes of cayenne pepper, white pepper, leather and eucalyptus. And while the tannins are indeed prevalent, they are not overwhelming. Qualifying award: Bellingham NW (double gold)
Rating: Double Platinum • 95 points
Production: 120 cases
Alcohol: 14.2%
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