2013 Hall Bergfeld Cabernet Sauvignon 

The aromas opened with black plum, blackberry and a touch of cedar. The wine matured nicely in the bottle, gaining layers of complexity: cigar box, cinnamon, stewed plum and raisin, and a hint of black pepper. It remains fresh, lifted by its bright acidity in balance with 15.4% alcohol. The tannins, likely assertive upon release, have softened to a refined medium level, showing how beautifully the wine has evolved in the bottle.

I know. I could have paired it with something very elaborate. But sometimes, when the wine is this expressive, simplicity pairs best. A burger topped with aged white Tillamook cheddar brought the flavors together. The sharpness of the cheese with the richness of the burger let the aromas and flavors unfold together. 

Proof that the humble burger can rise to the occasion with the right wine.