Chuck Reininger debuted his Super Tuscan-style red with the 1999 vintage, and it is not a coincidence that it emerged from the first harvest of Sangiovese from Seven Hills Vineyard. He neither produces it each year, and nor does he rush it to market. The 2010 Cima leads with Sangiovese (54%), backed by a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec from Pepper Bridge Vineyard. Neutral French oak and new American oak (18%) were used for 5 1/2 years, leading to a theme of red currant, pink strawberry, rose hips and smoked meat, framed by sandy tannins and rewarding acidity. Reininger, a former Mount Rainier climbing guide, names this for the Italian word for “summit.” It’s a release prized each year by his wine club and otherwise limited to his Walla Walla tasting room.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 260 cases
Alcohol: 14.9%
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