A classic vintage for Cab in Washington and one of the state’s lesser-known yet more historic sites produced stellar results in the hands of Lacey winemaker Josh Stottlemyre. Walter Clore prompted surgeon George Stewart to plant near Mattawa in 1972, and the Gilbert Cellars family purchased the vineyard 30 years later. Stottlemyre grabbed his six-barrel lot at nearly 25 Brix on Oct. 25 and devoted an all-French oak program (50% new) to it. Aromas offer up hints of dusty red plum, cassis and cherry jam with coffee. Its structure is tremendous as sandy tannins and ample acidity allow for full enjoyment of flavors akin to blackberry, cassis, cocoa powder and coffee. The suggested food pairing is simple — rib eye.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 150 cases
Alcohol: 14.8%
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