Avennia 2020 Valery Red
This Right Bank Bordeaux-style blend is 88% Boushey vineyard Merlot with Champoux Cabernet Franc filling out the rest. Two thirds was fermented in concrete; the finished wine was aged 21 months in 28% new French oak. This is A++ material for such a mid-priced Washington red which will keep pace with the state's finest Merlots at any price. The time in concrete seems to soften it up a bit and add a touch of minerality, while the new oak aging puts a lightly toasty frame around the cassis and chocolate core. 216 cases; 14.6%; $50 (Columbia Valley) 94/100
