Blackcurrants, bark, dried spices, walnuts and cigar box on the nose, followed by a full-bodied, concentrated palate, framed by firm, fine tannins. Lovely balance and persistency to this. Light toasty character on the long finish. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 26% merlot, 10% malbec and 4% cabernet franc. Drink from 2028. Claire Nesbitt Deputy Tasting Editor

The 2022 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard tempts the senses with notes of blueberry sauce and molten chocolate lifted by dried violets and stone dust. It is soothingly round and spry, with crisp acidity and cool-toned wild berry fruits splashing across the palate. Nuances of tart blackberry mix with rosemary and sour citrus as the 2022 finishes long, full of tension yet only gently tannic. This is a gorgeous vintage for Apogee, a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 10% Malbec and 4% Cabernet Franc. - Eric Guido

All from the famous site, the 2022 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard blends 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 10% Malbec, and 4% Cabernet Franc into an elegant, medium-bodied offering of soft red fruit with a plush midpalate. Herbal hints of cedar and sage play along the edges, accentuating dusty tannins that finish with grip. This should shine best in the next 5-7 years and be able to cellar well a good 20.

A sweet, ripe blackberry pastille aroma joins forces with a dusty mineral note similar to the white dust that coats driveway gravel. Blackberries dominate the palate, as well, joined by bursts of black licorice and thyme. Apogee offers a rare combination of dazzling acidity and grippy tannins that will make you think about laying down a few bottles for posterity. Enjoy from 2027 to 2042. — Michael Alberty

The fruit-forward Apogee comes from Pepper Bridge Vineyard on the Washington side of the Walla Walla Valley. Black plums and Christmas spice with notes of Mexican dark chocolate. The palate is fleshy, with black fruits, and is structured alongside black pepper and mocha powder, with a showy redolence through the finish.