A year ago, a Grenache featuring Gunkel fruit — an estate source for Maryhill — emerged as the No. 1 wine of the Platinum. That vineyard helped produce another of the Northwest’s best examples of the juicy red Rhône, thanks to winemaker Richard Batchelor’s blending with acclaimed Elephant Mountain Vineyard. The 17 months in a barrel program of 30% new French oak leads to sweet mocha scents with beautiful rose petals, freshly sliced ripe strawberries and a whiff of cracked pepper. The bright and juicy palate brings in plum, cinnamon and a touch of cardamom. Qualifying award: Great Northwest Invitational (gold)
Rating: Platinum • 92 points
Production: 531 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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