Charles Smith CasaSmith ‘Cinghiale’ Sangiovese, Wahluke Slope, Washington 2014 750ML ($21.95) Buy Now: $18 special
Tuscany’s famous grape meets Washington’s Wahluke Slope: Casa Smith Sangiovese is big enough to bridge continents, and flavorful enough to satisfy Old and New World tastes. Whole cluster fermentation breeds a wine with backbone, and 12 months in barrel (35% new oak) gives added depth and finesse to this Italian/Washingtonian stallion. Rich notes of cherry and earth carry across smooth tannins and just enough acidity, proving that Italy’s best grapes make for happy immigrants to the Evergreen State. – Daniel