The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley includes 6% Cabernet Franc. It spent 22 months in 50% new oak and was bottled unfined and unfiltered. The product of an unusually warm growing season, this Cabernet leans toward the dark fruit side of the spectrum with aromas of leather, tobacco, spice box, earth, and black cherry. There is good layering of fruit and solid length but the wine is slightly compressed on the palate. Give it 2-3 years to evolve and drink it through 2022. Tel. (509) 525-0940, www.lecole.com

Warm, lush and seductive, the winery’s Walla Walla Cab includes 6% Cab Franc in the blend. A vibrant mix of boysenberry, blueberry, black raspberry and black cherry, it’s big, smooth, full, fleshy and immensely flavorful.——P.G.(10/1/2006)—— 91