Forest Hill Vineyard Cabernet Malbec 2023 

65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Malbec. The Cabernet/Malbec blend makes sense in WA, where Malbec does exceedingly well when treated with care. There are a number of advocates for the single variety Malbecs, but it really works its magic when paired with Cabernet, offering plushness and filling out the supermodel bone structure that Cabernet is born with. This hums with purple fruit, inky graphite, and dark chocolate husk. Acidity simmers bright and fine, ethereal and a carpet of cloud cover hovers on a brisk autumn morning. Fine tannins are firm yet supple; this is an expert example of a perfectly structured wine, the plush mid-palate enveloping taste buds like a velvet blanket. A perfumed and lush finish of violets and campfire continues to compel long after the final sip.

By Cassandra Charlick