Seven Hills Ciel du Cheval Vintage Red - 2004

A couple of weeks ago I had an opportunity to visit with Kirsten of Seven Hills Winery and to sample the 2004 Ciel du Cheval Vintage Red Wine from Red Mountain. Okay, I am stretching this a bit - it was more than a sample. It was at least two glasses -- and I wanted more.

Estatlished in 1988, Seven Hills Winery was one of the first five original wineries in the Walla Walla Valley. Using only top-tier vineyards, they produce less than 10,000 cases a year. The Red Mountain appellation is one of the most distinctive viticultural areas in the state of Washington and home to one of the most prestigious and renowned vineyards in the state, Ciel du Cheval (French for "Horse Heaven").

To sum this wine up in one word - "elegant." I really do not need to say much more than this. No need to give any descriptions of nose, taste, awards or points. "Elegant" says it all. A unique blend of 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, and 13% Petit Verdot and cellared in the finest French oak.

Elegant.