Kontos Cellars “Alatus” Blend
WHY WE LOVE IT
- Alatus, meaning ‘having wings’, wine was named after the Kontos grandpa, “Doc” Campbell’s 63-foot sailboat. This vessel, which their families shared in Port Ludlow, holds a special place in their hearts.
- Red blend from the Walla Walla Valley AVA.
Varietal: 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 8% Malbec, and 5% Syrah
Tasting Notes: Deep ruby color and intoxicating aromas of wild blackberries, black cherries, Damson plums, crushed black roses, mulberry, sweet tobacco, sandalwood, and smoldering incense. On the palate, flavors are attention-getting, with deep cored black and blue fruits that are intermixed with licorice, bittersweet chocolate, French roast, and dusty earth. On the back, the wine takes an elegant turn, with macerated berries, roasted pecans, kirsch, crème de cassis, plum preserves, and lanolin, all pushing on into a lingering firm yet ripe tannin finish.
PRESS
n/a
PRODUCER BACKGROUND
Kontos Cellars, a family-owned winery in Walla Walla, has been part of the region’s community for six generations. The winery was established by brothers Chris and Cameron Kontos, their father Cliff, and their wives Kelli and Becca. The family has deep roots in Walla Walla’s history, a legacy of third-generation wheat farming, leading to their current role as second-generation winemakers. Specializing in ultra-premium Bordeaux varieties, they produce a flagship blend called Alatus and focus on highlighting the uniqueness of their varietals. Collaborating with notable vineyards like Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills, Kontos Cellars is known for its exceptional quality wines.