EFESTE, pronounced F-S-T, is an acronym for the winery’s founders. Their idea to make two barrels of wine based on the Ferrelli annual tradition of winemaking has since evolved into a significant label. You can taste their wines at the winery and tasting room in Woodinville, Wash.
EFESTE 2013 Final-Final Red Blend, $30
Editor’s Choice – Extraordinary
Production: 4,100 cases
Alcohol: 14.8%
This astonishing red wine earns our highest rating. It is a brilliant blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah assembled from no less than nine distinct vineyards spread over four American Viticultural Areas: Columbia Valley, Yakima Valley, Red Mountain and Wahluke Slope AVAs.
Rich, earthy and meaty aromas and flavors abound, revealing dynamic layers of game, mesquite, cassis, blackberry, dried blueberry, violet and tarragon wrapped around a beam of fresh acidity that pulls together on the harmonious and powerful finish.
EFESTE 2013 Red Mountain Estate Petit Verdot, $50
Editor’s Choice – Outstanding
Production: 80 cases
Alcohol: 14%
In 2007, EFESTE planted three vineyards owned by Kevin and Angela Taylor in the Yakima Valley and Red Mountain AVAs with the goal of producing small lot estate bottlings. This is the first release of these wines from Taylor Mag Vineyard, managed by grower Dick Boushey. Petit Verdot is commonly used as a component in Bordeaux varietal blends, however winemaker Peter Devison was so taken with the 2013 vintage of this varietal that he chose to bottle a small amount. It’s a stunning example of a single-varietal, single-vineyard designate component wine.
Sultry aromas of black fruit, exotic baking spice, violet and a whiff of smoke lead into the palate, resonating with earthy minerality highlighted with rich, juicy blackberry and cassis flavors and accents of red plum skin, mesquite and dried herbs. Most notable is the solid structure and texture, which combine with remarkable balance and complexity. Powdery thick tannins dance through bright acidity on the lengthy finish.
Website: www.efeste.com