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2004 Orphelin Reviewed


2004 Orphelin Red Wine produce by Chateau St. Michelle

This is my first post of the year - finally, not that I've given up wine, just busy with life. Interestingly, my son’s 2nd grade teacher recommended this wine to my wife. I decided to track it down. At first, I was not sure which label she was speaking of. I had never heard of it and was uncertain as to the spelling. So, I visited with a local wine steward and she set me straight.


The Orphelin label is actually a Chateau St. Michelle label, and is available for purchase direct from the winery for $30. I’m told the main market for this wine is upscale restaurants – which is why it is difficult to find retail. This is another drink me now wine. It has aromas of dark fruit, earth, herbs and a hint of cedar. Flavors of blackberry and tobacco are balanced, with a soft finish, slightly dry. Pair with grilled pork chops a spinach salad and apple pie for dessert. I think I'm hungry, yes, definitely hungry.

Chateaus St. Michelle and Columbia Crest have become ubiquitous when it comes to Washington wine, and I may tend to ignore them because of it. But, the Orphelin label is an interesting endeavor on their part – it is an effort at producing a Rhone style wine from Washington grapes. Check out the blend: 39.5% Syrah, 16.5% Grenache, 15% Cinsault, 15% Mouvedre, 6% Sangiovese, 3.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.5% Petit Verdot, .5% Souzao, .4% Touriga, .1% Malbec. Interesting eh? Once again Syrah plays an important part in delivering the goods.

www.chateaustmichelle.com

12,000 Cases produced.

Cheers!

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