Today’s Lauren Ashton Cellars 2012 Cuvee Estelle is one of those rare, hidden gem finds that we love to bring to you. This 92 point (Robert Parker) wine is very balanced, very food friendly and very delicious.

This is one of the best Washington wines we’ve featured in our 9+ years. We think you’ll love it.

Fruit and spice and everything nice on the nose, with black cherry, wild strawberry, cherry, red currant and cranberry, dried earth, tobacco leaf, subtle spice and subtle black pepper.

Ultra juicy on the palate, with dark fruit, earth and spice all playing together in perfect harmony. Blackberry, black cherry, smoky blueberry, braised fig, sweet spice, pepper and river rock.

This wine hails from the Woodinville sub-AVA (American Viticultural Area), which is situated within the Puget Sound AVA. This AVA is home to some 130 wineries, including some of the state’s most notable, including Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Winery, Novelty Hill Januik, and Silver Lake.

Incredibly flexible and friendly with a wide array of food pairings. Drink now or hold for up to 7 years. Very highly recommended.

~

What Robert Parker has to say:

92 points - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate. - “Offering more red plums, sweet cherries, toasted spice, licorice and coffee bean, the 2012 Cuvee Estelle (55% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot) is a plump, full-bodied, sexy effort that lacks the density found in the Proprietor’s Cuvee. It’s a great wine to enjoy anytime over the coming decade.”