The 2007 Seven Hills Vineyard is composed of 52% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 9% Cabernet Franc aged for 18 months in 49% new French oak. Medium crimson-colored, it delivers a nose of balsam wood, tobacco, spice box, minerals, cassis, and black cherry. Elegant on the palate and red fruit dominant, this medium-bodied offering is quite structured. Purchasers should cellar it for 2-3 years so it can display its full potential. Tel. (509) 525-6502; www.pepperbridge.com

This blend of 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 52% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc is a jewel; sappy and seductive, loaded with cassis and boysenberry, tart and racy, and defined with sharp tannins. A strong and well-ripened herbal character infuses the red-fruit core, giving the wine length and style; it is just at the edge of showing some heat on the finish. Cellar for 8 to 10 years.——P.G.(2/1/2011)—— 92