Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley (Washington State) Mourvèdre 2009

With only 613 cases produced, it will be difficult to find this wine. But it’s worth the search. At first glance, Mourvèdre, a grape that needs lots of heat to ripen, would seem out of place in Washington State. But one taste tells you it is not. Marvelous herbal and savory elements act as a perfect foil for the black fruit notes in the glass. Each sip brings more nuances–a little earth, a hint of bitterness, some spice. Suave tannins, which seem to be the hallmark of Chateau Ste. Michelle, make it lovely for current consumption.