Clearwater Canyon Cellars 2019 Phinny Hill Vineyard Coco’s Reserve Carménère, Washington State $42

Of the 41 career Platinums awarded to Coco Umiker, 11 have been for her work with Carménère — the relatively obscure red Bordeaux. In fact, her first-ever Platinum came in 2013 from the cool 2011 vintage. All of them have been via Phinny Hill Vineyard, planted by the late Dick Beightol. Umiker manages the tannins and herbal charms of this variety within its profile of blueberry, toast, white pepper and sage. Cola and black licorice emerge in the balanced finish of this example from the Boise native’s reserve tier. “This is the most ‘Carmy’ wine in the flight,” remarked one judge. “The sage is there, but it’s not vegetative.” Qualifying award: Great Northwest Invitational (double gold)

Rating: Platinum • 94 points

Production: 143 cases

Alcohol: 15.1%

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