Red Mountain is one of the warmest, driest regions in Washington, producing small berries with intense concentration. This wine is comprised of 73% Williams Ranch at the End of the Road Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Quintessence Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Coyote Canyon 2nd Contract Cabernet Sauvignon.
The 2017 growing season was cooler and crop yields were significantly lower in comparison to the past two vintages. The lower temperatures delayed ripening and helped to retain fresh fruit aromatics and mouthwatering acidity. Despite cold winter conditions, 2017 gave us concentrated wines with classic Washington state character.
Grapes were sorted with a state-of-the art receiving and separation system that gently removes stems and leaves, allowing for more pure fruit expression. Daily gentle pumpovers during fermentation extract optimal flavor and color and minimize harsh tannins. Each fermentation lot is tasted daily to evaluate the evolution of the tannins, modify extraction techniques and find the right moment to drain the wine off of its skins.
“The smallest American Viticultural Area in size, Red Mountain wines are anything but diminutive. Hot, dry conditions and weak soils produce clusters of small berries with intensity and focused flavors. The wine is crafted to showcase the ripe fruit characteristics, incredible aromatics and concentrated tannins that reflect Washington state’s warmest growing region.” - Bob Bertheau, Head Winemaker
Recommended pairings include beef, hearty pasta dishes, rack of lamb, seasoned with cracked black pepper, or rosemary.