Top USA Bordeaux-style blends

Andrew Will, Ciel du Cheval Vineyard, Red Mountain 2008

Chris Camarda named his label, based on tiny Vashon Island near Seattle, for his two sons. Camarda is a key figure in Washington’s Bordeaux-styled success. And his work with the esteemed Ciel du Cheval site on the moonscape of Red Mountain shows a special talent for Right Bank-styled efforts, with Merlot and Cabernet Franc accounting for 66% of the mix (Cabernet Sauvignon makes up the rest). It’s not shy; the Taransaud oak shows its robust strut. But the fruit is alluring and tangy, with savoury caraway, lilies and green tea, and a mineral energy, all of which mesh seamlessly. 18.5pts/20
Price: £41–£49 AG Wines, En Primeur, Slurp, Wine Bear, Winedirect
Drink: 2013–2022
Alc: 14.5%