This stellar Cabernet Sauvignon, which hails from Washington’s Columbia Valley, was an absolute hit with guests at one of our First Friday tastings. The “Sharecropper’s” wines were born out of the 2001 recession, when winemaker David O’Reilly and Washington farmers had to work out a partnership that harkened back to the days of sharecropping, where profits were distributed once the wines were made and sold.
Owen Roe's Sharecropper's Pinot makes reference to the label's origins: During the (economically) difficult harvest of 2001, the winery took fruit that growers were having trouble selling, on the promise of sharing the profits of the finished wine with them, i.e., sharecropping. Thankfully for the growers, this release is now so successful that they get paid upfront for their grapes! The winery's tasting note: Aromas of savory toast, nutmeg and mint lead to a surprising mouthful of zingy acidity with bright and juicy marionberry and Rainier cherry flavors. Underlying layers of vanilla and baking spices like cinnamon and black licorice are structurally enhanced with candied fruit and brown sugar nuances. Ready to drink now, however this wine will cellar well for 5+ years. 14.1% Alcohol.