Mullan Road Cellars Red Blend 2017

Description

91 Points, Wine EnthusiastRun by the legendary Dennis Cakebread (yes, that Cakebread), Mullan Cellars has given us this beautiful Red Wine Blend. He’s chosen to showcase what Washington state can do in the wine arena, and he’s done it well. Dennis’ Red Wine Blend is made for meats on the grill and out of the oven. It’ll be in peak drinking form in a few years, so design a memorable menu while you wait. We’re dreaming of an herb-crusted standing rib roast with toasted orzo and almond slivers tossed with plump currants and charred salt-and-pepper broccoli. Winery: “Initial aromas of fresh black cherry, cassis, vanilla bean and juniper berry make way for deeper scents of sweet blackberry pie and dried strawberry. The palate offers concentrated flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant and dark cherry with a touch of spice. It’s framed by firm but silky tannins for balanced elegance. Pairs well with any red meat on the grill, pork tenderloin, heavy cheeses and grilled vegetables.” Mullan Road Cellars was founded in 2012 by Dennis Cakebread of the renowned Cakebread Cellars winery in Napa Valley. A 40-year veteran of the wine trade, Dennis embarked on a mission to make a world-class Washington State wine embodying the rich history and terroir of the Northwest. Mullan Road Cellars is named for Lieutenant John Mullan, a 19th-century pioneer who built the first wagon road into eastern Washington. Its winemaker is Aryn Morrell, a Washington native who spent years making wine in Napa Valley with prestigious wineries such as Silver Oak Cellars, Joseph Phelps, Quintessa and Chappellet before returning to Washington in 2007. The grapes for Mullan Road Cellars Red Blend come from several outstanding, low-yielding vineyards in the Columbia Valley, including the famed Seven Hills Vineyard, as well as Stillwater Creek Vineyard and the Corfu Crossing Vineyard outside Royal City, an area soon to be designated the Royal Slope appellation.” 18 months in 30% new French & American oak