2009 Sleight of Hand Cellars - The Spellbinder
36% Cab, 29% Merlot, 16% Franc, 10% Sangio, 9% Syrah. Walla Wall, Red Mtn., Yakima, Horse Heaven AVA’s. Up in Chicago this week and found this for around $26ish. I had heard this producer many times when recommendations for Washington wineries come up. Day 1 it was simple but did not have proper stemware to really get a good read on it.
Day 2 - Number 1 thing that stands out is a sense of freshness. You really get taken away by it, and makes you wonder what some of their higher end wines will be like. With so many varietals in the blend, I question how it can be so sound and put together, but it is. Not getting many red or blue fruit on the nose, more floral and earth. Acidity and blue fruit on the palate though. Dry. No oak standing out (neutral oak barrels for 11 months). I think this is at the right price point. You do get individuality. The nose is the standout that gives it that edge where you think I get it, and makes you think it has a specialness. Need to seek out others by these guys, but this is a solid wine.
