Tom and Ann-Marie Hedges must have had a Cristal ball when they purchased on Red Mountain. It's one of the finest Washington State American Viticultural Areas of all time, with aromatics that are simply amazing! The Hedges Family Estate produces mostly Cabernet-based wines, including the entry level CMS (Cabernet Merlot Syrah). The 2008 is a bit tight, but decanting and aeration allow the classic herb, pencil lead and black olive to waft forth. The body is medium-light with pale tannins appearing near the finish. The black cherry fruits are dark, ripe and fat. Overall this is a tender drop with some complex Bordeaux-like workings that is about a year away from perfection. Costs about $12. Cheers!

-- Michael McVittie reviews wines available locally

Wine of the week: 2008 Hedges Family Estate CMS