The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 8% Merlot, 3% Malbec, and 1% Petit Verdot. It was aged for 22 months in 56% new French oak. Saturated purple in color, it emits aromas of cedar, mineral, spice box, black currant, and cola. Supple and quite rich on the palate, the wine has good depth, adequate balance and good length. It will evolve for 2-3 years and be at its best from 2010 to 2018. Tel. (509) 525-6502; www.pepperbridgewinery.com

Returning to traditional fruit sources (Seven Hills and Pepper Bridge) after the freeze year of 2004, winemaker JF Pellet has crafted the finest Pepper Bridge Cabernet to date. Gorgeous aromas explode from the glass, a lush mix of flower, berry, mocha and sweet earth. Smooth and silky on the tongue, it’s a riot of berry and cassis flavor, all in proportion and moving gracefully across the palate and into a round, detailed finish with whiffs of smoke, caramel and coffee grounds. ——P.G.(12/1/2008)—— 93