'02 Tamarack Cellars Firehouse Red

[newsguy]

bought two bottles a few years back on recommendation of someone at a wine shop. opened the first in december 2005 and it was pretty tight. wish i would have decanted.

opened the second a a few nights back and this red blend from columbia valley, wash. was singing. cabernet sauvignon, syrah, merlot and cab franc. tasting it really reenforces that washington state is at the same lattitude as france: earthy dark fruits, plus blueberry liquer, roasted meat, cherries and just a touch of chocolate. lots of fruit and decent acidity behind it. smooth mouthfeel and a very nice finish. i think WS gave this a 90; i give it a solid 89, and my wife liked it even more than i did. think i paid about $21, so an agreeable value.