Winemaker Casey McClellan’s family first arrived in Eastern Washington in the 1880s, putting down roots while farming wheat in the fertile region. One hundred years later, he and his father worked side-by-side on the Walla Walla Valley’s first significant planting of Bordeaux varietals in what became the original blocks of Seven Hills Vineyard. Casey and his wife, Vicky, went on to found Seven Hills Winery in 1988.
This is the first release of the winery’s new red wine blend sourced from no less than eight Walla Walla Valley vineyards. The blend consists of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) with Malbec (10%) and Petit Verdot (5%) for added depth and complexity.
Seven Hills 2014 Walla Walla Valley Red Wine, $35
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding
Production: 2,250 cases
Alcohol: 14.7%
Silky, rich and concentrated, with a backbone of red and black fruit inlaid with velvet-like tannins that lend finesse to the inherent powerful structure. There’s solid depth to the seamless expressions of black cherry, cassis, red currant, mulberry and dried herb flavors that linger on the lengthy aftertaste.
Website: www.sevenhillswinery.com