“Spirit” of the Desert Wind

Feb 3 2011

A long while back I was lucky enough to experience the Ruah from Desert Wind Winery in Prosser, Washington. Now, I know what you’re thinking:

“what the heck is a Ruah?”

Well, don’t worry, it’s not some new grape, and it’s not some city in India…Ruah is actually the Hebrew word for “spirit” or “breath“…but I ramble.  As I was saying, I had the pleasure of opening a bottle of this wonderful blend awhile back and I remember it being a great choice, so I was definitely ready to try it again when the lady told me she was picking up a bottle tonight.

The Ruah is almost equal amounts of Merlot (45%) and Cabernet (40%) with a kick of Cab Franc to finish it off.  The experience begins with an aroma of rich chocolate and dark cherry.  The flavor is deep, starting with a bright raspberry and turning to an almost peppery finish. Pairing well with most anything off the grill, the wine has earthy aspects, but only in the slightest. With a gorgeous color that’s as deep as it’s flavor profile, and a price point of under 20 bones, the 2008 Ruah from Desert Wind is sure to delight the palates, as well as the wallets, of Bordeaux-blend lovers everywhere.

~Cheers!

Snobby Specs:

AVA: Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, WA

Varietal(s): Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc

Vintage: 2008

Price: $20 or less