Similarly styled, with a rich and rounded profile, the 2012 Malbec offers ample black raspberry, black currant, toast and earth in its medium to full-bodied, layered, ripe and forward profile. Aged 16 months in 30% new Russian and Hungarian oak, it’s a solid example of the variety from Washington State and has lots to like. Drink it over the coming 4-6 years. Made by Casey McClellan, these are superb, classically styled wines that are more than reasonable priced. His 2011s are quite strong here and while it wasn’t able to taste many of his 2012s, they appear to be a step up. Tel. (509) 529-7198; www.sevenhillswinery.com

Classic Malbec with it up-front, peppery and brambly bouquet (let alone its inky color), the 2010 Malbec has a complex, pure and up-front profile, medium body, solid acidity and a clean, lively and focused finish. Delicious and a fun drink, it should continue to shine over the coming 5-6 years. Drink now-2019. This is a solid lineup by winemaker Casey McClellan and the wines possess classic, textbook profiles across the board. Tel. (509) 529-7198; www.sevenhillswinery.com

A wonderfully inviting nose leads into a juicy young Malbec that’s packed with fresh raspberry and blueberry fruit, and accented with scents of pine needle and spicy, gin-soaked orange peel. The acid and fruit impact is immediate and powerful; the tannins almost silky. The finish gracefully extends the pleasure.——P.G.(7/1/2011)—— 91

This pure Malbec is a blueberry pie wine right down to its bones, with refreshing acidity and some steely tannins right behind. It also has a lovely floral note that comes out strongly with some hours of breathing.——P.G.(9/1/2010)—— 90

Also recommended, no tasting note given.