Upon first smell, penetrating red fruit jumps out of the glass surrounded by whiffs of orange blossom.  Plum and mineral notes are concentrated on the front palate with a silky mouthfeel transitioning to a finish of flint and lively aciditiy.

This dark magenta wine’s nose has beautiful high notes of raspberry and mineral. The well-structured body is supple in the front, showing notes of cassis and earth throughout the palate. The long, textured finish is framed by strong tannins. Drink from now until 2033.

Vineyards & growing season

Lady Hawk and Champoux Vineyards are two of the finest vineyards that Washington State has to offer, and both clearly represent the uniqueness of the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Lady Hawk, owned and operated by Judi and Paul Champoux, is a very small parcel of land with less than five acres planted, all of which is Cabernet Sauvignon. Luckily there are no other wineries that receive grapes from this meticulously managed vineyard, thus leading to a truly one of a kind wine. Champoux Vineyard, which is located adjacent to Lady Hawk, produces beautifully supple and complex wines, many of which have become the most famous and highest rated to come out of Washington State.

The Columbia Valley has seen a shift from cooler vintages in 2010 and 2011 to the three warmest vintages of the last ten years in 2014, 2015, and 2016. In 2016, an early bud break was followed by warm temperatures from spring through fall. Although quite warm, it was an even growing season without some of the extreme temperatures of 2015. This has led to very balanced wines, showing great acidity, which are drinking great at an early age.

This beautiful violet colored wine is overflowing with cassis, black raspberry and chocolate notes. It is multilayered and textured with flavors that range from spice to mocha and dark fruit. The finish is long and brimming with the bright acidity and supple tannins that are indicative of Red Mountain. Enjoy this wine from now until 2033.

Vineyards & Growing Season

After a string of mostly moderate vintages, Washington State saw its warmest vintage in many years in 2015.  An early bud break was followed by warm July and August temperatures. Cooler September temperatures allowed grapes to hang in the vineyard longer and gain great complexity.  The heat also led to very small individual berries with immense structure and flavor.

Ciel du Cheval, Obelisco, and Quintessence Vineyards, all located in the Red Mountain AVA, are three of my favorites. These particular vineyards always express the terroir of Red Mountain especially well. The rich soils, dependable air drainage, and limited rainfall result in highly concentrated berries with dense skins, rich inky color, and daring complexity.