Sagemoor’s Dionysus Vineyard contributed to an assortment of Platinums in 2022, and it led the way on this effort by Dan Wampfler and his wife, Amy, who also blended Dionysus with grapes from its sibling planting Bacchus, historic Ciel du Cheval on Red Mountain and Abeja’s own vineyards. Dark cherry and currant fruitiness join with truffle and a sense of summertime in the rainforest. New French oak made up about a third of the barrels, so that influence adds hints of caramel and fresh-brewed coffee but doesn’t subtract from the fruit. Suave tannins are carried along by pomegranate juice. Suggested pairings include braised beef, mashed potatoes and a shallot compote. Qualifying award: Great Northwest Wine comparative tasting (Unanimously Outstanding! / double gold)
Rating: Double Platinum • 97 points
Production: 688 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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