Long Shadows Pirouette 2018

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

As former President and CEO of Chateau Ste. Michelle, Allen Shoup helped put Washington State on the map for premium winemaking during his 20 year career. In 2003 he decided to strike out on his own with a new project, Long Shadows, which brings together the expertise of many of the world’s top winemakers. The winery focuses on the Columbia Valley and has already been named “Winery of the Year” by Food & Wine magazine thanks to the exceptional wines they are producing.

A great introduction to the Long Shadows style is this punchy cuvee made by Phillippe Melka who has been named one of the world’s top nine winemakers by Robert Parker. He used small lots from some of Washington’s premier terroirs, blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a touch of Petit Verdot. Fruit comes from Red Mountain and the Wahluke Slope where conditions are ideally suited to Bordeaux varietals.

The nose is charming and expressive with ample notes of deep black fruit like cassis, cherries and ripe plums and undertones of spice and toast from the 22 months of oak ageing. The first sip reveals a punchy full body, firm tannins, and a solid texture leading into rich wild berry flavours on the long, balanced finish.