This second-generation vineyard in the upper reaches of the Yakima Valley north of Zillah is one of the early adopters of the Sustainable WA program, and the 2021 vintage brought a different set of challenges via the “heat dome” event in late June when the Dineen family as the temperature in the vines reached 112. Their charming Bordeaux-driven blend of Malbec (21%), Cabernet Sauvignon (21%), Petit Verdot (21%), Cabernet Franc (20%) and Merlot (6%) receives a contribution of Syrah that adds to its suppleness. The list of descriptors begins with blackberry compote, vanilla and toasted oak. Those are joined by hints of a crispy and buttery scone with currants and oven-roasted pecans, all of which combine for a well-structured and plush finish. It’s a delicious example of what’s in store for Marissa Dineen’s winemaker, Samantha Mallery, a product of Yakima Valley College’s viticulture and enology program and recipient in 2019 of a Yakima Enological Society scholarship. This earned a gold medal last fall at the Great Northwest Invitational Wine Competition, a judging staged at the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel & Spa in Hood River, Ore., on behalf of West Coast wine merchants.

Rating: 92 points / gold medal / Outstanding!

Production: 300 cases

Alcohol: 14.1%