2016 Red Blend Elephant Mountain Vineyard

The vineyard site is a striking south slope high above the Yakima Valley floor from 1300 to 1450 feet elevation. The elevation and proximity to the Cascade foothills 30 miles west moderates summer heat and extends the growing season. Planted in the late ‘90s, the vines are mature and deep-rooted. Soils consist of a two-foot layer of loess over fractured basalt.

On the nose: Deep creamy cassis and blackberry, well integrated oak toast and spice, and complex wild bramble. On the palate: focused and mouth-filling, intense blackberry/dried cherry and spice, well structured, classic Washington acidity.

Pair with broiled rosemary lamb chops or grilled balsamic eggplant.