Long Shadows Vintners 2020 Pirouette

In the glass, the 2020 Pirouette from Long Shadows Vintners is a masterful composition of depth, finesse, and power, a symphony of meticulously sourced fruit and world-class winemaking. From the first swirl, a dense, inky core unveils seductive aromas of black cherry, plum compote, and sweet baking spices, interwoven with hints of dark chocolate and crushed violets. The bouquet alone is an invitation to a hedonistic experience, one that unfolds with profound complexity and seamless integration.

The palate is where this wine truly sings, an opulent display of structure and balance. Red Mountain’s Cabernet Sauvignon asserts its dominance with a core of ripe, concentrated black fruit, delivering remarkable intensity without excess weight. The inclusion of old-vine Cabernet from Sagemoor Vineyard lends an added dimension of richness, while Merlot from the same revered terroir imparts a silky texture that coats the mouth with elegance. A touch of Cabernet Franc from the Wahluke Slope introduces refined red fruit and an underlying herbal nuance, enhancing the wine’s sophistication. The final whisper of Malbec completes the blend, imparting a subtle depth and spice that lingers on a finish that seems to stretch into eternity.

Aged for an impressive 22 months in 80% new French oak, the 2020 Pirouette achieves a remarkable harmony between its powerfully structured tannins and the delicate influence of wood. The barrel fermentation of the Cabernet Sauvignon in 400L French oak barrels lends an integrated roundness, allowing the tannins to develop a velvety softness that remains present yet restrained. The meticulous winemaking process ensures that every element is in concert, from the concentrated fruit to the nuanced oak influence and the vibrant acidity that keeps the wine fresh and energetic.

The 2020 vintage, marked by low yields and an extended hang time, bestowed the fruit with a remarkable purity and intensity. Despite a hot summer, the gradual cooling in September allowed for optimal ripening, preserving the natural acidity and ensuring a wine of balance and age-worthiness. This is a red blend that commands attention now but promises even greater rewards with patience. Decanting unveils its full spectrum of flavors, but for those willing to wait, cellaring over the next decade will only enhance its already magnificent profile. A true collector’s piece, the 2020 Pirouette is a testament to Washington State’s ability to produce wines of world-class caliber, an offering that stands shoulder to shoulder with the finest Bordeaux-inspired blends.

Blend: 66% Cabernet Sauvignon 30% Merlot 2% Cabernet Franc 2% Malbec

Alcohol: 14.9%

93 POINTS - "Based on 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Malbec, the 2020 Pirouette offers more high-toned aromatics of plums, liquid violets, incense, and dark chocolate. These carry to a medium to full-bodied, nicely balanced, dense 2020 offering ripe tannins and outstanding length." - Jeb Dunnuck

92 POINTS - "Note of black cherries and mulberries with toasted spices and stones. Medium- to full-bodied with creamy tannins and velvety texture. Meaty and structured with a flavorful finish. 66% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 2% cabernet franc and 2% malbec. Drink or hold." - James Suckling

The 2020 Pirouette is a big, refined wine with beautiful balance, offering concentrated color and flavors. Black cherry, sweet spice, plum, and hints of dark chocolate are lavishly integrated with silky tannins that leave a rich impression across a lengthy finish. Complete and seamless from beginning to end.