Casey McClellan, who was first in the Walla Walla Valley with a winemaking degree from University of California-Davis, also was among the first in the Northwest to farm grapes specifically for the production of rosé. That purposeful approach and attention to detail have long made his a favorite among the rosé illuminati. He’s also remained devoted to Cabernet Franc, which accounts to 87% of this release. In addition to pulling from McClellan Estate Vineyard, he works with other two prized sites in the Columbia Valley — den Hoed and Gamache — for the Petit Verdot (10%) and Malbec. This bottling is carries more pink than salmon in its color, and the nose hints at saffron, pink strawberry shortcake and raspberry with flavors to match. A touch of roundness on the midpalate adds to the complexity before the close of bright red fruit that’s filled with finesse.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 2,100 cases
Alcohol: 12.5%
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