Winemaker Notes
#92 Wine Enthusiast Top 100 of 2018
Savage Grace has 2 different vineyard versions of this grape (aka Malbec), it is so cool that the wines are almost polar opposites of each other, but fit together perfectly and both have a place at the dinner table. This one is the more savory and lighter-bodied one. A very unique wine that’s fun to drink. Similar the 2014, which was a favorite. 100% whole-cluster.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This wine was fermented 100% whole cluster and saw just five months of neutral oak. Significantly lighter in color than most of the state's offerings of the variety, it brings aromas of potpourri, dried herb, black pepper, spice and red plum. The palate is elegant in style, all about delicacy and purity of flavors, with tart acidity capping it off. Put it on the dinner table to see it shine.
Editors' Choice
Celebrated for its bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec has enjoyed runaway success in Argentina since the late 20th century. The grape originated in Bordeaux, France, where it historically contributed color and tannin to blends. A French agronomist, who saw great potential for the variety in Mendoza’s hot, high-altitude landscape, brought Malbec to Argentina in 1868. Somm Secret—If you’re trying to please a crowd, Malbec is generally a safe bet with its combination of dense fruit and soft tannins.
As the first recognized wine-growing region in the Pacific Northwest, Yakima Valley is centrally located within Washington’s vast Columbia Valley. The region also includes Washington’s oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines, Otis Vineyard, planted in 1957, and Harrison Hill Vineyard, planted in 1963. Yakima Valley contains three smaller sub-regions: Rattlesnake Hills, Red Mountain, and Snipes Mountain and is ideal for both red and white wine production. In fact, Yakima Valley is Washington’s most diverse region, boasting more than 40 different grape varieties over about one hundred miles.
The cooler parts of the valley are home to almost half of the Chardonnay and Riesling produced in the state! Both are made in a wide range of styles depending on the conditions of the vineyard site.
But its warmer locations yield a large proportion of Washington’s best Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The finest Yakima Valley reds are jam-packed full of red cherry, currant, raspberry or blackberry fruit, as well as cocoa, herb, spice and savory notes, and exhibit a supple texture, great body, focus and length.