Also outstanding, the 2011 l’Idiot du Village gives up searing white pepper, leather, underbrush and assorted red and black fruits on both the nose and palate. Showing more smoked herbs and meatiness with air, this medium-bodied, focused and pure effort has solid mid-palate concentration, polished tannin and a big finish. A blend of 90% Mourvedre, 5% Cinsault and 5% Syrah, enjoy it over the coming decade or so.
Master Sommelier turned winemaker, Greg Harrington is fashioning some of the top wines in Washington from his base in Walla Walla. His 2011s showed beautifully from barrel last year, and didn’t disappoint this year from bottle. His 2012s will be even better.
Tel. (509) 876-2427; www.gramercycellars.com