2017 Long Shadows Chester Kidder

2017 Long Shadows Chester Kidder

2017 Long Shadows Chester Kidder: Columbia Valley, Washington

Winemaker Notes: Dark in color with generous aromas of wild blackberries wrapped around a pleasantly earthy core that’s accented by hints of oak spice. On the mid-palate, graphite and black licorice are complemented by a burst of vibrant fruit that lingers across a lengthy finish. A beautifully integrated wine with a broad, polished mouthfeel.68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Syrah, 6% Petit Verdot.

In most of France, wines are named by their place of origin and not by the type of grape (with the exception of Alsace). Just like a red Burgundy is by law, always made of Pinot noir, a red Bordeaux is a blended wine composed mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Depending on the laws of the village from which the grapes come, the conditions of the vintage and decisions of the winemaker, the blend can be further supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and in rare cases, Carmenere. So popular and repeated has this mix of grape varieties become worldwide, that the term, Bordeaux Blend, refers to a wine blended in this style, regardless of origin.

Columbia Valley, in the southeastern corner of Washington State, is one of the United States’ largest official wine regions. The area covers just over 11 million acres (4.5 million hectares), of which 40,000 acres (16,000ha) are under vine.The Columbia Valley AVA is centered around the Columbia River and its tributaries: the Walla Walla, Yakima and Snake rivers.

Long Shadows Vintners is a Washington winery and label with a portfolio of wines made from local fruit, but by different international winemakers. Most of the grapes used are popular regional varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay and Syrah, although the portfolio includes blends and less common varieties too. Long Shadows was founded in 2003 by Allen Shoup after he left his position as president and CEO of the major Washington wine company Chateau Ste. Michelle.