2008 L'Ecole No. 41 "Apogee - Pepper Bridge Vineyard" Walla Walla Valley Bordeaux Blend
SKU #1269986
91 points
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2008 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard is made up of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 8% Malbec, and 3% Cabernet Franc aged for 22 months in 50% new French oak. Balsam wood, graphite, cinnamon, clove, espresso, violets, black currant, and blackberry aromas inform the nose of a structured, savory, incipiently complex blend that will benefit from another 3-4 years of cellaring. This balanced, lengthy effort offers a drinking window extending from 2014 to 2028. (JM)
(8/2011)
91 points
Wine Enthusiast
A Cabernet-dominated, Bordeaux-style blend, this peppery red has a complex mix of earth and spice scents around tart red fruit. Notes of toast and cinnamon, sharp acidity, and tannins with residual green tea flavors keep the finish interesting. (PG)
(11/2011)
91 points
Wine Spectator
A bit tough in texture, but the pure blueberry and currant fruit comes through clearly, driving through a layer of chewy tannins to persist nicely on the meaty finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2014 through 2018. (HS)
(9/2011)
90 points
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Good full, deep red. Aromas of raspberry and sandalwood. Sweet, fat and full, but with a firm mineral spine and plenty of sweet tannins giving shape and lift to this velvety blend. The slightly tough, medicinal finish really calls for patience. 90+ (ST)
(11/2011)