Efeste, pronounced like the letters “F-S-T” strung together, was named after the last names of founders Helen & Dan Ferrelli, Patrick Smith, and Kevin & Angela Taylor. Efeste is located in the Warehouse District of Woodinville, Washington. Mark Fiore, who honed his skills at Charles Smith, is the winemaker at Efeste.
Efeste donates a portion of proceeds from the sale of their “Tough Guy” red wine, named after the Taylor’s son Joe for the nickname he earned during his fight against Leukemia. The first vintage of “Tough Guy” was 2008.
Purple in color. 14.5% ABV. 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon from the acclaimed Klipsun Vineyard. Super nose of red and black fruits, cigar box and graphite. Medium body with strong acidity. Rich and plush with tremendous structure. Black currants, cassis, tobacco and earth on the palate. Nice length on the finish with prominent tannins. Lots to like here. Best over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Efeste has one of the better white wine programs in the state of Washington and the red wines are also exceptional. The wines are readily available at retail, via the wine club and at the winery.