A whiff of clover jumps from the glass, then this dark, juicy wine rips into a dense cassis flavor. Ripe and sappy, it has just the right touch of new oak layered onto the finish. — (2/1/2013) —89

The 2008 Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard is a fine example of this varietal made famous in Mendoza, Argentina. Wood smoke, cinnamon, clove, underbrush, and black cherry aromas inform the nose of an elegant, spicy, nicely proportioned wine. With excellent concentration and depth, this tasty Malbec has enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years and will deliver enjoyment through 2020. I would love to place it in a blind tasting of similarly priced Malbecs from Argentina. Novelty Hill and Stillwater Creek Vineyard are owned by Tom Alberg. The vineyard, located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills (way off the beaten path), was planted in 2000 and has acquired a reputation for the high quality of its fruit.Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com

This Washington Malbec captures some of the high-altitude finesse and structure of the better Argentine versions. Bright fruit, tangy acids, firm tannins, and a high-toned profile make this a fine choice for grilled meats. ——P.G.(11/1/2011)—— 89

The 2006 Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard is opaque purple-colored. It has a superb bouquet of wood smoke, mineral, pencil lead, black raspberry, and black cherry. In the mouth spicy black and blue fruits are buttressed by fine-grained tannins and plenty of spice notes. This already complex effort will evolve for 2-3 years and drink well from 2011 to 2018. Novelty Hill and Stillwater Creek Vineyard are owned by Tom Alberg. The vineyard, located on the Royal Slope of the Frenchman Hills (way off the beaten path), was planted in 2000 and is beginning to acquire a reputation for the high quality of its fruit. A year ago the winery moved into its new quarters in Woodinville which it shares with Januik Winery. The Novelty Hills wines are made by the talented Mike Januik. This portfolio over-delivers in a very big way.Tel. (425) 481-8317; www.noveltyhillwines.com

This limited release bottling is clean, young and light, a Bordeaux-style red tasting of melon and strawberry, dappled with herb, chocolate and hints of sweet grass. It’s balanced and finely detailed, given its modest proportions. ——P.G.(12/1/2009)—— 88