2014 Charles Smith K Vintners ‘El Jefe’ Stoneridge Vineyard Tempranillo, Washington, USA (750ml)

TASTING NOTE:

A beautiful wine, with layers of cedary herbs, black cherries, currants, toasted spice and pencil lead, the 2014 El Jefe Tempranillo Stoneridge Vineyard hits the palate with full-bodied richness, an elegant, silky texture, plenty of concentration and a great finish. Its just another incredible example of this variety coming from Washington.

-Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 95 pts

The aromas are sweet and sappy, with notes of raspberry, herb, pipe tobacco and musk. The palate shows more restraint than the aromas might suggest, bringing a suave sense that carries through a finish that just wont quit. Its equal parts intrigue and delivery, bringing a lot of richness.

-Wine Enthusiast, 93 pts

WINEMAKER’S NOTE:

2014 had an early spring and a wonderful, long summer with cool nights to help maintain great acidity in the grapes. Going into the Fall, temperatures cooled down quite a bit throughout the state, and the fruit was able to hang for a long period of time before harvest. This combination allowed the wine to develop more complex flavors, while still maintaining the acidity to produce bright, focused wines. It picks up with blueberries, marinated fruit and slate rich soil.