The 2007 L’Orage is made up of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc aged in 75% new French oak for 28 months before bottling without fining or filtration. Purple/black in color with a superb, brooding nose of herbs, lavender, Asian spices, tobacco, black currant, and blackberry On the palate it is full-bodied, opulent, dense, rich, and intensely flavored. The oak, tannin, and alcohol are totally harmonious, and all that is missing is another decade of cellaring. It will offer a drinking window extending from 2017 to 2037. The intense Scott Greer is one of Washington’s rising stars. His wines are all sourced from estate vineyards which are just now starting to come into maturity. He keeps yields low and the farming and winemaking are impeccable. He has recently opened a tasting and sales room in the Seattle area which should improve access to his wines. Sheridan’s newest collection begins at “outstanding” and rises from there. In addition, the two entry-level wines are superb values. There is really no mystery as to what Scott Greer is doing at Sheridan; total attention to detail, a great vineyard, impeccable farming, and non-interventionist winemaking. www.sheridanvineyard.com