Cabernet Blend, Kind Stranger 'Alter'

74% Cabernet Sauvignon [Aquilini & Freewater Rocks Vineyard]/14% Malbec [Weinbau Vineyard]/12% Syrah [Freewater Rocks Vineyard]

Blending is nothing if not an excercise in change, creating a new sum. The parts here are three varietals from outstanding vineyard sites to produce this robust Washington red. Cabernet vines grown in the basalt derived gravel of Red Mountain give excellent depth of fruit and ample structure, with a touch of earthy Freewater Rocks. Weinbau Malbec brings concentration, spice notes, and fruity volume to the palate. Funky Freewater Syrah layers on dark-fruited intrigue and breadth to the finish. It sees about 22 months in 15% new French oak. Full-bodied enough to satisfy, but not so overpowering that you can't have a glass by its own.