2003 Helix by Reininger Pomatia, Columbia Valley, WA

[wondersofwine]

50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 16% Syrah, 7% Cabernet Franc
Produced and bottled by Reininger, Walla Walla, WA
14.3% alcohol
53% American oak; 47% French oak
Opaque, dark purple color with a thin crimson rim.
Merlot is very evident in the flavor spectrum despite constituting only about 1/4 of the blend. Damson plum, cassis--ripe fruits bordering on jammy but helping to balance the alcohol. Fine tannins on the finish.
I had this with modest main dishes of stuffed bell peppers and sloppy joes dolled up with French onion soup.
$20.00 per bottle from the winery. Has fared well in San Francisco Chronicle wine competitions and Northwest wine competitions.