The first of the vineyard designates is the 2008 Seven Hills Vineyard, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 15% Cabernet Franc that was aged for 17 months in 45% new French oak. It sports an aromatic array of herbs and spices, cedar, tobacco, cassis, and blackberry. Already complex, on the palate it exhibits an elegant personality, spicy fruit, good volume, and excellent balance. This lengthy effort will evolve for 2-3 years and drink well through 2023. The new releases from Pepper Bridge continue their tradition of excellence. As usual there are two varietal wines blended from the Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills vineyards, two vineyard designates, and a Reserve which is a selection of the best lots from the two estate vineyards. Tel. (509) 526-6502; www.pepperbridge.com

This Bordeaux-style blend, from a choice section of the Seven Hills Vineyard, is fragrant with a beguiling mix of fruits, flowers and fresh herbs. Cassis and pepper, Asian spices and a lingering, textural mouthfeel, make this a wine that disappears all too quickly from the bottle.——P.G.(4/1/2012)—— 93