L'Ecole 41 Pepper Bridge Vineyard Apogee 2013

Professional Ratings

• 93 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  Incorporating the most Cabernet Sauvignon of the special cuvees, the 2013 Apogee Pepperbridge Vineyard comes entirely from the Pepper Bridge Vineyard in Walla Walla and is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 15% Malbec and 5% Cabernet Franc, all of which was aged 22 months in 50% new French oak. Its deep purple color is followed by lots of blackcurrant and black raspberry fruits, toasted spice, licorice and floral aromas and flavors. These give way to a full-bodied, structured 2013 that has solid mid-palate depth and building tannin on the finish. Give bottles 3-4 years of cellaring and enjoy over the following 10-15 years.
• 91 Wine Enthusiast
  This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Merlot (20%), Malbec (15%) and Cabernet Franc. It brings notes of herb, espresso and cherry that are followed by concentrated fruit flavors backed by burly tannins that need significant time to stretch their legs. Best after 2021.
• 91 Wine Spectator
  Firm and generous, rolling out blackberry, plum and currant flavors onto a velvety frame. Gains momentum on the long and expressive finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2018 through 2023. 1,000 cases made.