2021 Rocky Pond '11 Dams' Red Blend, Columbia Valley, Washington (750ml)

RED CELLAR TRIO WINE CLUB SELECTION

Established in 2013 by David and Michelle Dufenhorst, Rocky Pond's name comes from the granitic river rocks scattered throughout their Columbia Valley vineyards. Rocky Reach became Washington’s 20th AVA in June 2022. With a similar soil structure, Rocky Reach contains the newest plantings and is home to the winery. The estate consists of three LIVE certified vineyards. Clos Chevalle in the cool Lake Chelan AVA was the first to be planted in 2004-05. Double D and Rocky Reach are five miles apart along the left bank of the Columbia River, in the warmer Rocky Reach AVA. First planted in 2013, Double D’s unique soils consist of fine sandy loam with cobblestones and tumbled granite. The vineyard faces north between 700 and 940 feet in elevation.

The 2021 11 DAMS Red Blend is composed of 51% Malbec, 49% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from the Double D and Rocky Reach vineyards. The grape varieties were fermented separately in stainless-steel tanks, and malolactic fermentation was completed in barrel. Blending followed. Aged for 20–22 months, 35% new oak. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Black-red hue. Enticing aromas of dark plums and brambly berry compote, with a whiff of violets. The juicy palate is bold and fruit forward, showing primary flavors of ripe blackberry, blueberry and black currant with a touch of toffee and mocha. Decadent but not cloying, with super-fine, well integrated tannins and a long, luxurious finish.