Alexandra Nicole’e 2008 Duck Press Red Destiny Ridge Vineyard is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. It is an impressive glass-coating opaque purple, but its aromatics are reticent. In the glass it remains tightly wound although there is enough structure for 1-2 years of further development. Perhaps additional cellaring will awaken this blend but it is a pricy gamble.Tel. (509)786-3497 www.alexandranicolecellars.com

The one red offered for tasting is the purple-colored 2007 Duck Press Red Destiny Ridge Vineyard. It is composed of 56% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot, and 10% Malbec aged for 22 months in French and American oak. It offers up a pleasing perfume of Asian spices, cigar box, leather, cassis, and black cherry. Forward, savory, and easy-going on the palate, this medium-bodied, moderately lengthy effort will provide pleasure over the next 5-6 years. Alexandria Nicole Cellars’ estate vineyard is the outstanding Destiny Ridge, a 266 acre parcel planted to a lengthy list of varietals. Owner Jarrod Boyle started the winery in 2001 and makes many more wines than were submitted to my tasting. There is a tasting room in Woodinville.Tel. (509) 242-9979; www.alexandrianicolecellars.com