Echolands Winery, Walla Walla Valley (Washington) Cabernet Franc 2021

 While the Walla Walla Valley is perhaps best known for Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, there are other red wines made here that deserve attention as well.  The Echolands Winery is one of many relatively new wineries in Walla Walla and their wines show a great deal of promise.  Grown in deep loess soils in one of the coolest sites in the appellation, The Blue Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Franc grapes yield an elegant and complex wine (along with 3% Merlot).  The 2021 Echolands Cabernet Franc offers a deliciously ripe and round style.  The bouquet shows black cherry, red cherry fruits with floral hints plus elements of cocoa, herbs, cedar and spice.  The red cherry and black cherry fruit flavors are underscored by a cocoa-like richness as well as floral and herb and spice tones.  It has a silky texture and a delicious lift at the finish.