Long Shadows Chester Kidder Red 2017

Drink now or cellar for up to 12 years. No need to decant before serving.

Previously named “Winery of the Year” by Food & Wine magazine, Long Shadows was founded by Allen Shoup who helped put Chateau Ste. Michelle on the map for world class Washington wines during his 20-year stint there. In 2003 Allen decided to begin a new project to showcase the brilliance of the Columbia Valley using the expertise and talent of many of the world’s finest winemakers.

This particular cuvee was created to honour Allen’s mother, Elizabeth Chester, and his grandmother, Maggie Kidder, by Long Shadow’s Director of Winemaking, Gilles Nicault. It is a modern Bordeaux-style blend composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah with a dash of Petit Verdot. Fruit is sourced from the Walla Walla Valley and macerated for an extended period to extract plenty of tannin and colour.

Punchy notes of cassis, wild berries and spice dominate on the nose thanks to the lengthy ageing period in new French oak barrels. On the palate there’s a generous full body, firm tannins, and a solid core of dark fruit which lingers on the tongue. Try pairing with hearty dishes like barbecued ribs or a prime steak to bring out the rich fruit flavours.