Rujaya

This is now the second time I have tasted the new wines by Rujaya. It is the second time that I have been seriously impressed with winemaker Benedict Almquist and his precision of crafting wines with a sense of place. For nearly a decade he worked alongside his cousin at Almquist Family Vintners in Seattle, and then in 2018 became their resident winemaker. Since spring of 2023, Benedict worked as assistant winemaker at Darby Winery in Woodinville, WA. He found his inspiration in a bottle of FX Pichler Riesling from the Wachau Valley, Austria and became infatuated with world-class Riesling. His first Riesling release was a home run! The new wines were even better than the first wines that I tasted. These are all fall 2026 releases. You don’t want to miss out on the 2024 ‘Icarus’ Grenache (OB, 95) which has amazing rocks character and is pretty and downright sexy in its incredible flavor range. Learn more about this electric new winery at https://rujayawinery.com/ and here are my reviews of the inaugural wines from Rujaya.

2024 Rujaya ‘Apinya’ Boushey Vineyard’ Grenache- The fabulous 2024 Rujaya ‘Boushey Vineyard’ Grenache was sourced from this famed site in the Yakima Valley. Stored in neutral oak, this opens with a heady melange of red and dark fruits, with pretty red rose petals and orange blossom on the nose. The palate is soft and inviting with a seriously good texture, as well as weight and length. Generous, and showing lovely stony nuance, this is drinking beautifully right now. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Rujaya ‘Apinya Royal Slope’ Syrah- The seriously good 2023 Rujaya ‘Royal Slope’ Syrah comes from the acclaimed Stillwater Creek Vineyard and utilizes Joseph Phelps clonal selection. All of this wine underwent whole-cluster fermentation. It stands inky in the glass, with black cherry compote, coffee grounds and green olives that combine with shades of chocolate pie on the palate. This has a bulls blood, sanguine character that makes it very Cote Rote meets Washington. Very dense and exotic, with Asian spices that linger, enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2024 Rujaya ‘Apinya Icarus Vineyard’ Grenache- Sourced from the Icarus Vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks District, this 2024 Grenache is sensational, third-leaf wine that has amazing Rocks character. Once on the nose this takes on layers of anise with charcuterie, beef drippings, orange peel and fresh sage, with great stony essence. The palate is beautifully-textured with serious verve. A joy to consume right now, watch this evolve over the next six to eight years. But why wait? Drink 2026-2033- 95

2023 Rujaya ‘Apinya Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah- The 2024 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah was entirely whole-cluster fermented and hails from the famed Stoney Vine Vineyard. It is soft, savory and neatly-textured stuff. Black olive tapenade and smoldering wet stones all combine with sagebrush, boysenberry and smoked meats on the palate. Beautiful now, enjoy over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 95

Chateau Miraval

Today we share one of the famed houses in Provence. Miraval is one of the historic houses in Provence and a true Hollywood drama,  Chateau Miraval is a highly scenic 1,200 acre estate in Provence, which was founded by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Married at Miraval, Pitt and Jolie prior to their split lived there since 2008. The property boasts pine forests, olive groves, terraced hillsides, working vineyards, a private lake  as well as a moat. Much of the chateau dates back to 17th century, including 35 rooms in the main house as well as several tenant residences.The estate also contains remains of a Romanesque chapel, as well as the famed vineyard from which the Miraval Rose comes from. The recording studio at Miraval has housed some famous musicians including personal favorites Sting and The Cranberries (R.I.P. Dolores O’ Riordan). 

It was back in 2012 that Pitt and Jolie purchased this famed land for an estimated $60 million and records indicate that in 1252 philosopher and theologian Saint Thomas Aquinas visited the Miraval estate. The vineyard itself is very large, Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin are the iconic vintners behind this great Rose wine that produce white and rose wine from the 500 hectare property.  They produce a ton of Rose (roughly 200,000 bottles) and despite the quantity of wine produced, the quality of the wine has been apparently throughout the past five vintages.

I had such a marvelous visit to Miraval last August. Walking through this incredibly beautiful site, you can’t help but notice the immense stony quality of the vineyards. Massive limestone deposits are everywhere as you can see how the heat and stones lead to the struggle in the vines, resulting in extremely high quality grapes. The 2025 Miraval Rose (OB, 91) is direct and shows great mineral backbone with pretty red fruits. Learn more about Miraval at http://miraval-provence.com/en/ Here are the new 2025 Miraval review.

2025 Chateau Miraval Rose- The 2025 Chateau Miraval Rose is a great combination of Cinsault, Rolle, Grenache and Syrah. It shows delicate red raspberry and watermelon tones alongside honeydew melon and vibrant acidity on the palate. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2032- 91

Krug Champagne

One of the famed Champagne houses, Krug was founded by Joseph Krug back in 1843. Located in Reims and currently owned by LVMH Moet Hennessy, Joseph Krug, a German, originally founded this house. He later moved to Paris to work in accounting for Champagne Jacquesson and learned so much about Champagne that he began making his own privately. A brilliant linguist, Joseph spoke French, English and German and spoke some Russian, which put his Champagne house in good position to sell to overseas markets.

Following Joseph’s death his son, Paul Krug, took over and began selling Krug across Great Britain. Major turmoil followed Paul’s death in 1910 with two World Wars, although many people contend that the best Champagnes of the century were made between 1926 and 1928. Some have said these were some of the finest wines the house has ever made.

For many years Krug has crafted a range of wines including their famous ‘Grande Cuvée’ (which I reviewed), as well as a stunning non-vintage rosé, a vintage Blanc, a vintage Blanc de Blancs from the Clos du Mesnil Vineyard, a vintage Blanc de Noirs from the Clos d'Ambonnay Vineyard and older vintages released as Krug Collection series.

I adored the the 171 eme. Edition ‘Grand Cuvée’ which has a base from the warm and rich 2015 vintage.Learn more about these very special wines at https://www.krug.com Here is my review of the new ‘Grand Cuvee’ Champagne by Krug.

Krug Grand Cuvée 171 eme Edition Champagne- With a base from 2015, the 171 eme. by Krug is a dazzling bottling that still has so much life in front of it . It really needs about 30 minutes of air to be fully aroused. Lemon rind and salted melon combine with brioche and toasted hazelnuts on the palate. This edition is primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with a small amount of Meunier blended in. Bravo! Drink 2026-2039- 97

Long Shadows

For years I have loved the wines of Long Shadows, one of the premier wine lineups that you will find anywhere in the Pacific Northwest. Allen Shoup had a celebrated 20-year career leading Chateau Ste. Michelle, its affiliate wineries and Washington wines to international prominence. Shoup retired to establish Long Shadows in 2002, the most ambitious and personal project of his storied career. He hired Gilles Nicault to be winemaker, serving as the director of winemaking and viticulture, while collaborating with a team of all-star vintners to refine Allen’s vision. Gilles is making some of the most consistently great wines in the Pacific Northwest, including arguably Washington’s finest Riesling to silky and concentrated Cabernets. He also makes the finest Super-Tuscan inspired wine in Washington, the ‘Saggi.’

Long Shadows has recently released a new line of wines that are their ultra-premium and limited production bottlings, their ‘Meritant’ series. I tasted with Nicault and was so impressed with the wines. I went back the next day and re-tasted the wines. You are going to be blown away with these bottlings. Learn more at https://longshadows.com/ and here are my reviews of the incredible new ‘Meritant’ wines by Long Shadows.

2024 Long Shadows ‘Meritant’ Chardonnay- One of the finest Chardonnays that I have tasted in the past year, the 2024 Long Shadows ‘Mertiant’ Chardonnay was sourced entirely from the famed Celilo Vineyard. The wine was stored in all 600L barrels (light toast, tight grain) prior to bottling. Brioche, bananas foster and shades of rich cardamom dusted melon all mark the nose. The palate is big and bold, with amazing tension and salty minerality. The sense of place and salinity from this special vineyard is clear. The finish is exceedingly long as this is dazzling in its heady youth. Drink 2026-2037- 97

2022 Long Shadows ‘Meritant’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 ‘Meritant’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a barrel selection wine hailing from Red Mountain. It was stored in all new French oak, as the oak integration is spectacular. There is loads of tension and bright acidity from this slightly cooler vintage — yet this beauty builds in weight and flavor density with more and more air. Creme de violette and tar flavors combine with sagebrush, black currant cordial and blackberry pie with milk chocolate dusted Arabica bean on the palate. Decadent and dense with serious minerality, make sure you give this another year in the bottle to fully evolve. Flirting with perfection, enjoy this total heavyhitter now and over the next fifteen to twenty years to come. Tasted twice over two days with consistent notes. Drink 2027-2050- 99

Kairal Wines

Today we share a brand new winery with the talented Steve Wells (Time & Direction owner/winemaker) at the helm. Kairal is a reference to the greek words kairos and chronos, which mean “the opportune moment” and “time”, both of which are absolutely necessary in winemaking. I thought that the inaugural wines were seriously good, particularly their ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah (OB, 93) which is very elegant and smooth throughout the drinking experience. Learn more at https://kairalwines.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Kairal Wines.

2024 Kairal Viognier- The 2024 Kairal Viognier offers honeysuckle water and lychee alongside ripe banana on the nose. The palate is clean and laden with loads of nuance and tension alongside freshly cut limes, salty minerals alongside shades of white peach. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2024 Kairal ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah- The 2024 Kairal ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah offers green peppercorns and fresh sage alongside blood orange zest and ripe red fruits on the nose. The palate is lush and refined with a smooth mouthfeel, as this is silky throughout the drinking experience. Drink 2026-2034- 93

Walla Walla Vintners

It is my pleasure to introduce one of the oldest wineries in the Walla Walla Valley. Proprietors Scott and Nici Haladay have really been investing time and energy into their winery. A few years ago they hired Derrek Vipont from Long Shadows who started his career at Walla Walla Community College in the Enology and Viticulture program. After completing his education with a degree from Oregon State University in Fermentation Science, Derrek worked several harvests across the globe before eventually moving back to Walla Walla and joining Walla Walla Vintners in January 2019. He makes some beautiful wines for Walla Walla Vintners.

I adored the new 2024 ‘Woven Fields’ Red Wine (OB, 92) which impresses for the price. Learn more about these great new releases at https://wallawallavintners.com Here are my reviews of the new wines by Walla Walla Vintners. 

2024 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Woven Fields’ Red Wine- The 2024 ‘Woven Fields’ is primarily cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with smaller portions Malbec and Cabernet Franc. This is well-balanced and poised stuff with a chewy mouthfeel and terrific core of dark fruits, pipe tobacco and chocolate. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2023 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Bello Rosso’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Bello Rosso’ combines equal parts Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Seven Hills Vineyard. This shows good astringency with velvety tannins that line the core of pipe tobacco, wintergreen, dark chocolate shavings and fresh sage. With more air Arabica bean and graphite notes emerge, as this is best enjoyed over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 93

2023 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Alera’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Alera’ combines mostly Merlot (77%) with the remainder Cabernet Sauvignon from the Cut Bank Vineyard. This comes off silky and refined with a sinfully good texture. Milk chocolate and sweet pipe tobacco combine wth shades of fresh herbs and scorched earthy notes. Gorgeous now, watch this evolve over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2023 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Cut Bank Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon- An outstanding bottling, the 2023 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Cut Bank Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from this higher elevation spot up Mill Creek in the Walla Walla Valley. Pencil lead and anise combine with shades of creme de cassis and dark florals on the nose. The palate is juicy and delicious with a refined mouthfeel and loads of texture alongside stony minerals. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2023 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon stands inky in the glass. Black tea and exotic spices parade with sandalwood tones and dark currants on the nose. The palate is refined and silky throughout the drinking experience, as this is exceptionally seamless, yet maintains amazing power and poise. Drink 2026-2044- 95

Gard

Happy Saturday to you all. Gård was founded by brothers Sandy and John Lawrence, who have farmed the Royal Slope for more than 50 years, along with John’s son Josh, who joined the operation in 2002. The winery is managed by Josh and his wife, Lisa, who oversees sales and marketing, while Josh oversees the vineyard and other farm and orchard operations. Josh and Lisa are some of the nicest people in the wine business. I had the pleasure of chatting with them last night as they are now one of the largest landholders in The Rocks District. They have a new line of knockout wines from this region.

Matías Kúsulas has served as head winemaker since 2021. He has taken the Washington wine scene by storm with his dizzying array of wines and creativity. He boats three masters degrees and is a former Marine. He is an incredibly talented person who is such a pleasure to talk wine with. Tasting with him yesterday he offered his thoughts on the 2023 vintage which he sees as “great.” He finds that in winemaking he is “never satisfied. Always pushing” as he has such an incredibly diverse range of wines for Gard but also for his lines of Valo and Massalto wines.

I adore the 2023 Gård Vintners ‘Grand Klasse’ Riesling (OB, 94) which is one of the finest wines of its kind in the state. Do not miss out on the stunning 2024 Gard ‘Icarus’ Cinsault (OB, 96) which is the finest single varietal wine of its kind that I have ever tasted in North America. Spicy and savory, this wine has sensational flavor range. It comes off very pretty, almost Pinotesque, yet has superior Rocks character. Learn more about these great wines at gardvintners.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Gård Vintners.

2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Riesling- This 2023 ‘Grand Klasse’ Riesling comes entirely from the Corfu Crossing Vineyard. This has roughly 2G/L residual sugar. Wet rock and papaya come together with shades of nectarine on the nose. The palate is dense and beautifully textured with serious weight and length. This comes off big and burly yet maintains incredible freshness. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2024 Gard Sauvignon Blanc- Fermented in foudre, the 2024 Sauvignon Blanc is done in a Sancerre-inspired style, this was entirely coming from the Connor Lee Vineyard. Papaya, white peach and white flowers all combine on the nose. The palate has great texture with green herbal undertones on the palate. Beautifully now, enjoy over the next few years. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2025 Gard ‘Franc Blanc’ White Wine- The ‘Franc Blanc’ is entirely sourced from the Stone Ridge Vineyard. Stored in stainless steel, this had some less stirring and stands at only 12.5% alcohol. Walnut and green papaya combine with tropical fruits on the nose. This is super-delicious, mouth-watering wine, offering rocky nuance that has crazy good finesse and texture. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2025 Gard Vermentino- The 2025 Vermentino comes from the Corfu Crossings Vineyard. Stored in stainless with some lees stirring, this is rich and complex on the palate. Dense melon with nutty and stony flavors combine with a smooth mouthfeel. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Gard Albarino- This 2024 Albarino was stored in Acacia and mainly neutral French oak before bottling. This is now the third vintage of this wine. Mango and star jasmine combine with shades of green melon on the nose. The palate has amazing volume, texture and freshness. This has to be the finest edition of this wine with its wet stone nuance and will push anything of its kind in the state. Drink 2026-2033- 94

2024 Gard Semillon- The 2024 Gard Semillon is an inaugural wine in this lineup. Coming from the Connor Lee Vineyard, this was stored in one neutral puncheon before bottling. Marzipan and brioche notes combine with banana and shades of honeydew melon on the nose, with faint nutty accents. The palate gives you unexpected freshness with serious texture and weight. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Gard Muscadelle- All coming from old vines from the Connor Lee Vineyard, the 2023 Muscadelle offered tangerine blossom, peaches and nutty accents on the nose. The palate has outstanding volume and skin contact, as this saw an overnight maceration and barrel fermentation. This has great push-pull between sweetness and bitterness on the palate, with excellent length. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2025 Gard ‘Freyja’ White Wine- This 2025 ‘Freyja’ combines Viognier (48%) with the remainder Grenache Blanc and Roussanne. This is the first edition with a good amount of Grenache Blanc. Co-fermented, this was stored in stainless before bottling. Very floral on the nose, this takes on a silky mouthfeel. The palate has cashew nut from the Grenache Blanc alongside heady melon and starfruit tones with a refined texture.This drinks better than the ’24. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Gard ‘Tigre’ Pinot Gris- A skin-contact Pinot Gris from the Corfu Crossing Vineyard, the 2023 ‘Tigre’ is so perfumed on the nose with star jasmine, baking spice, orange zest and shades of cashew nut. The palate has amazing freshness and richness with great damp soil and nutty nuance with a core of melon fruits. This is incredible stuff that is drinking great now. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2025 Gard Rose- This 2025 Gard Rose is mainly Columbia Valley Grenache with some Mourvèdre blended in. It is distinctly earthy on the nose with dried herbs and delicate red fruits. The plate is pretty and downright sexy with its core of red fruits alongside damp earthy notes. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2023 Gard ‘BDX Blanc’ White Wine- The 2023 BDX Blanc was sourced from the Connor Lee and La Reyna Vineyards. Mainly Sauvignon Blanc, with 35% Semillon, this delivers walnut and white rose petals alongside shades of salted green melon on the nose. Standing golden in the glass, the wine takes on sensational flavor density with heady melon, tropical and citrus fruits. This is impeccably balanced stuff. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘Grand Klasse’ mainly was sourced primarily from the Solaksen Vineyard and Connor Lee Vineyards. Salted brioche, Japanese pear and baked brie all mark the nose. The palate has great power and poise with a terrific melange of pastry crust alongside baking spices, melon and tropical fruits. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Gard ‘Winemaker’s Select’ Chardonnay- There was no ‘Select’ made in 2022, as this is a barrel selection Chardonnay that was stored entirely in new French oak before bottling. A brilliant golden hue, this opens with baking spice laced pastry crust alongside roasted pineapple and shades of salted mango. The palate is decadent and delicious with amazing richness and underlying finesse. Finishing exceedingly long, watch this evolve over the next ten years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Viognier- The 2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Viognier is a stunning wine that was stored in roughly half new French oak before bottling, as this went through partial malolactic fermentation. The nose is gorgeous with gardenia and white rose petals that combine with mandarin orange zest and hints of pie crust. The palate has amazing volume and finesse and terrific salty and stony nuance. Drink 2026-2035- 94

2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Roussanne- The 2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Roussanne comes from the Corfu Crossing Vineyard. Stored in roughly 50% new French oak before bottling, this delivers walnut and honeydew melon alongside salted peach and orange blossom on the nose. The palate has incredible volume and tension, with loads of stony and salty nuance. A world-class wine, enjoy now and never the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2035- 95

2025 Gard ‘Carbonic’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from the Solaksen Vineyard, the 2025 ‘Carbonic’ has amazing freshness and finesse with bright red fruits, and hints of cola with rocky soils on the palate. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2023 Gard Tempranillo- The 2023 Tempranillo offers damp earth with smoked meats on the nose and bright red and dark fruits. The palate is refined and plush with great salty and meaty character. The savory and herbal notes really pop here. Partially whole-cluster included. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Gard ‘Vaucluse’ Red Wine- This 2023 ‘Vaucluse’ vintage has considerably more Viognier blended in that was all co-fermented. The nose is beautifully high-toned from the Vio, with white flowers alongside hints of blood orange zest, iodine and bright red fruits. The palate has amazing balance with a seamless texture. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Gard ‘The Don’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The excellent 2023 ‘The Don’ is all Cabernet Sauvignon coming from the Royal Slope AVA. The palate shows medium-bodied dark fruits with chocolate and green herbal notes. This is juicy and delicious stuff that is meant to be enjoyed now. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2023 Gard Malbec- The 2023 Malbec was stored in roughly 40% new French oak before bottling. Violets, tar and dark chocolate all combine on the nose. The palate is soft and juicy with a smooth mouthfeel. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2023 Gard Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Gard Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Scarline and Solaksen Vineyards. It is soft and elegant on the mouth with juicy kirsch and boysenberry fruits that combine with smoky and savory tones. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous wine coming from mainly the Connor Lee and Solaksen Vineyards. This comes off lush and round on the mouth with terrific volume and flavor density. Arabica bean and milk chocolate combine with heady dark fruits on the palate. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2023 Gard Cabernet Franc- Coming entirely from the Connor Lee Vineyard, the 2023 Cabernet Franc was stored in both new and neutral French oak prior to bottling. Red currants and orange bell pepper combines with white peppercorns on the nose. The palate is nervy and well-balanced with a refined texture. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Gard Merlot- This 2023 Merlot was sourced from the Connor Lee and Scarline Vineyards. Beautiful red florals mark the nose with tar and red licorice. The palate is polished with great salty mineral character alongside bright red and dark fruits. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Gard ‘Kvasir’ Mourvedre- The outstanding 2023 ‘Kvasir’ was aged in large format oak barrels prior to release. Very meaty and wld, with its herbal tones, the wine comes alive on the palate with racy acidity and a silky mouthfeel. The palate sows beautiful freshness and texture, with loads of salty minerals, smoke and charcuterie notes. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Gard Grenache- This 2023 Grenache comes from the Corfu Crossing Vineyard. It is seamless and elegant on the palate with amazing texture, weight and length. Bubblegum and gorgeous loganberry fruits combine with green herbal accents and bright salinity on the palate. Amazing to enjoy now, watch this evolve over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2023 Gard ‘Reverence’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Reverence’ is primarily Grenache (69%) with the remainder Syrah. The palate is beautifully-textured with a refined mouthfeel. Smoked brisket and green peppercorns combine with dense dark fruits on the palate. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2023 Gard ‘Grand Klasse’ Syrah- This 2023 ‘Grand Klasse’ Syrah is inspired by the wines of Cote Rotie. Aged in mainly new French oak this is incredible stuff with outstanding flavor complexity. BBQ beef ribs, chocolate, green herbs and shades of white pepper all combine on the palate.Mainly sourced from the Connor Lee Vineyard, enjoy this beauty now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2023 Gard ‘Thunderstone’ Syrah- Sourced from the Scarline Vineyard, the 2023 ‘Thunderstone’ saw all whole cluster fermentation. Dark currants combine with wet rock, iodine, beef drippings, blood orange zest, and tar notes on the palate. The flavor range here is utterly sensational. Enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2022 Gard ‘Toro’ Red Wine- A gorgeous wine, the 2022 ‘Toro’ combines 60% Grenache with the remainder Tempranillo that was stored in American oak barrels for 30 months prior to bottling. Coconut and orange rind flavors mingle well with a gorgeous core of red fruits and a seamless texture on the palate. A stunning wine, with great weight and freshness, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 95

2021 Gard ‘Winemaker Select’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The sensational 2022 Gard ‘Winemaker Select’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a barrel selection wine that was stored in new French oak before bottling. This is heady and intense on the mouth with serious texture and good stuffing. Fresh sage and chocolate flavors mingle well with sweet pipe tobacco leaf and loamy soil character on the palate. Drink 2025-2035- 94

2023 Gard ‘Stoneridge’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Stoneridge’ combines Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo from this stony location. The palate is sublime in terms of its seamless nature and power with serious poise. Loganberry and dark currants combine with roasted figs and tobacco leaf on the palate. Gorgeous to enjoy now, savor this elegant, opulent wine now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2022 Gard ‘Connor Lee’ Red Wine- A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this is a barrel selection wine that comes from the Connor Lee Vineyard. It is rich and velvety with a seamless texture on the mouth. Loads of espresso ground and freshness greet you with chocolate covered cherry and shades of tar on the palate. Delicious and dense, with bright underlying acidity, enjoy now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 95

2023 Gard ‘Solaksen’ Red Wine- The 2023 Gard ‘Solaksen’ Red Wine is a barrel selection wine that is near equal parts Syrah and Malbec. Jet black, this shows off black floral and fresh sage on the nose with shades of iodine, tar and blueberry compote. The palate is heady and dense with incredible power and great poise. There is not a wine quite like this in the state. Incredible! Drink 2026-2036- 96

2023 Gard ‘Scarline’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Scarline’ is a barrel selection wine composed of equal parts Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Gorgeous florals mark the nose alongside dark chocolate shavings, graphite and black licorice. The palate is amazing with incredible weight, verve and salty minerality. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2023 Gard ‘Laura Lee’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Named after Josh Lawrence’s mother, the 2023 ‘Laura Lee’ is all Cabernet Sauvignon coming from this stony location set on chalky soils. Fermented in concrete and then barrel-aged, this delivers sagebrush and milk chocolate tones that combine with black tea and exotic spices on the nose. The plate is beautifully-balanced and posed with great stony and salty character. Gorgeous now, watch this evolve over the next ten pls years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 96

2023 Gard ‘Connor Lee’ Red Wine- Made from equal parts Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the 2023 ‘Connor Lee’ is a powerful, concentrated wine that has a long life in front of it. This comes off plush and polished on the palate with a seamless character. Dried herbs and red bell pepper flavors combine with heady dark fruits and milk chocolate covered coffee bean on the palate. Drink 2026-2038- 96

2023 Gard ‘Winemaker Select’ Syrah- A barrel select wine, the 2023 ‘Winemaker Select’ offers tar, dark currants and chocolate notes on the nose with dried herbal accents. The palate is powerful and complex with heady dark and blue fruits that mingle well with espresso bean accents. With a lush mouthfeel, enjoy this delicious bottling over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 96

2023 Gard ‘Winemaker Select’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A barrel select Cabernet Sauvignon, this. 2023 comes from several estate sites. Bay leaf, espresso ground and chocolate with graphite all fill the nose. The palate is decadent and lush with a silky mouthfeel and refined tannins. Super refined and elegant stuff to enjoy now, yacht this evolve one the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2024 Gard ‘Crossfire Vineyard’ Marsanne- All Marsanne, this 2024 Rocks bottling offers honeysuckle and melon tones on the nose alongside shades of green papaya. The palate is dense and delicious with great nerve and rocky character alongside a core of melon and tropical fruits. Drink 2026-2032- 95

2024 Gard ‘Crossfire’ Viognier- The 2024 ‘Crossfire’ Viognier was stored in all neutral oak before bottling. Honeysuckle and star jasmine all combine on the nose with heady papaya and tangerine zest notes. The palate is reined and elegant with light baking spice notes alongside a core of dense melon fruits, with outstanding rocky character. Drink 2026-2033- 96

2024 Gard ‘Crossfire’ Rousssane- A total stunner that is all Roussanne from the Rocks District, this stands golden in the glass. Flinty aromatics meld well with lychee, pineapple and shades of Japanese pear on the nose. The palate silky and opulent with incredible texture and mouth-watering acidity. Bravo! Drink 2026-2033- 96

2024 Gard ‘Icarus’ Carignane- The first wine of its kind from the Rocks District, this 2024 Carignane shows lots of exotic spices on the nose with shades of red currants, wild strawberry and orange peel with bergamot notes. The palate is very rocky and citrus-driven with smoky and green herbal character. 50% whole cluster fermented. Drink 2026-2034- 95

2024 Gard ‘Icarus’ Cinsault- Sourced from the Icarus Vineyard in the Rocks District, this 2024 Cinsault offers Asian spices, crushed wet gravel and orange rind, red raspberry and garrigue notes. The palate is refined and sleek with incredible texture, weight and mouthfeel, embodying this outstanding rocky essence. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2034- 96

2024 Gard ‘Icarus’ Mourvedre- The 2024 ‘Icarus’ Mourvèdre offers potpourri and provencal herbs on the nose alongside shades of red licorice and Middle Eastern spices. The palate is super rocky and novel with amazing flavor range with soy sauce, green peppercorn, citrus rind and bacon fat notes. This has fabulous flavor complexity, making it completely irresistible to enjoy now. Drink 2026-2034- 96

2024 Gard ‘Icarus’ Syrah- A monumental bottling from this warm vintage, the 2024 ‘Icarus’ Syrah was 50% whole cluster fermented and then aged in neutral oak before bottling. This immediately gratifies on the palate, delivering beef drippings, oyster sauce, seaweed and shades of mandarin orange zest. The palate is ultra-refined and extremely rocky with incredible flavor range, texture and mouth-watering acidity. Drink 2026-2034- 97

2024 Gard ‘Icarus’ Shiraz-Inspired by the Hunter Valley Shiraz wines, this utilizes 309 rootstock. The 2024 ‘Shiraz’ shows dried herbs and eucalyptus alongside dark currants and chocolate tones. The palate is lush and elegant with light rocky soil character and excellent volume. Drink 2026-2034- 96

2024 Gard ‘Forcefield’ Cabernet Franc- The 2024 Gard ‘Forcefield’ Cabernet Franc shows incredible sage and tarragon notes no the nose alongside shades of orange bell pepper. The palate is elegant and seamless with a terrific melange of red and dark fruits that mingle with rocky soils. Drink 2026-2034- 95

Vazisubani Estate

Vazisubani Estate is a historic 19th-century noble landmark, boutique hotel, and winery located in the Alazani Valley of Georgia's Kakheti wine region. Founded in 1891 by nobleman Sulkhan Chavchavadze, the destination features 35 hectares of vineyards, a restored traditional marani (wine cellar), a botanical park, and a Michelin-recognized hotel.

Wines are stored underground in clay vessels. They make 40,000 bottles annually under the lead of head winemaker Lado Uzunashvili. Varietals include five native Georgian varieties: Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Kisi, Khikhvi, and Kakhuri Mtsvane.

One of the most harrowed varietals in this region, Saperavi, is an ancient red wine grape native to Georgia in the Caucasus Region.Its name means "to paint" or "dye" in Georgian. It is a rare teinturier grape, meaning both its skin and its internal pulp are deeply red. This is a varietal that is unique being high in freshness and also tannin. It reminds me of the textural elegance you see in Mencia, as well as the finesse in the varietal.

2023 Vazisubani Estate Qvevri- The 2023 Vazisubani Estate Qvevri is a blend of three indigenous varietals. Nutmeg drenched shortbread and mango tones mark the nose alongside hints of dried green herbs on the nose. The palate is beautifully-textured with shades of walnut nuances alongside melon and tropical fruits. This is really well-done. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2022 Vazisubani Estate Saperavi- The outstanding 2022 Vazisubani Estate Saperavi is concentrated, powerful and highly perfumed stuff. Anise, dark currants and shade sod red licorice all combine with salty and rocky soils on the palate. Neatly-textured and showing bright underlying acidity, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Plotline

A new winery out of Napa, Plotline was founded in 2023 by John LaCour. The winery focuses on classic Bordeaux varietals—such as Merlot from the Oak Knoll District, Cabernet Sauvignon, and limited white blends like Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc.

The wines are seriously good and well-textured. I love the new 2025 Plotline Semillon (OB, 93) which is smooth and silky throughout the drinking experience. Learn more at https://www.plotlinewine.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Plotline wines.

2025 Plotline ‘Carneros’ Semillon- The 2025 Plotline ‘Carneros’ Semillon is a beautiful, golden edition of this varietal. Honeydew melon, walnut and shades of poached pear all combine with nutty nuances on the palate. Big round and generous, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034 93

2024 Plotline ‘The Blackbird Vineyard’ Merlot- The outstanding 2024 Plotline ‘The Blackbird Vineyard’ Merlot offers kirsch and black currants on the nose with sandalwood tones that connects with hints of espresso grounds. The palate is silky and refined with a terrific mouthfeel, poise and flavor density. A stunning wine to consume now, enjoy over the next fifteen years to come. But why wait? Drink 2026-2041- 94

2024 Plotline ‘Rutherford’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 ‘Rutherford’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows silky and refined tannins on the mid-palate. Dense dark fruits parade with milk chocolate, dried herbs, loamy soils and shades of creme de cassis on the palate. Smooth and elegant throughout the drinking experience, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 94

Chateau Siran

An amazing history, Chateau Siran  is one of the oldest recorded wine estates in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France, with roots tracing back to 1428. Taken care of by Miailhe family since 1859, the estate is famous for its unique artistic heritage, a nuclear fallout bunker, and bypassing the 1855 Bordeaux Classification. In fact the aristocratic Toulouse-Lautrec family were loyalists who viewed the 1855 classification process as Bonapartist, they refused to attend or submit wines for the official ranking, leaving Siran unclassified.

Six generations of the Miailhe family have managed the estate, including William-Alain Miailhe, Brigitte Miailhe, and current head Édouard Miailhe.

The wines have been really well-made particularly in the last decade. I love the 2017 Siran (OB, 93) which is drinking beautifully now and has amazing poise and balance. Learn more about this great Margaux estate at https://chateausiran.com/en/history-of-the-estate/ and here is my review of the outstanding 2017 Chateau Siran.

2017 Chateau Siran- Jet back in the glass, the beautifully perfumed 2017 Chateau Siran really needs about an hour in the decanter to get going. Damp, loamy soils, with wet gravel combine with cassis and wild blackberry tones on the palate. Wonderfully earthy, with good viscosity, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Amos Rome

Today we share the wines of Amos Rome, a remarkably consistent producer from Lake Chelan. Amos Rome sources from locations in the Columbia Valley as well as their estate site in Chelan County. Their estate vineyard has a wide range of varietals including Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also utilize their High Blossom Vineyard located three miles from the tasting room and is set at 2000 feet. The location is planted to Riesling (planted in 2003), Grüner Veltliner (planted in 2019), and a block of Tempranillo & Albariño (planted in 2021). Wines show good body with texture and excellent acidity considering the heat of the region.

Owners Travis and Brianna Clark run the winery that has sweeping views of Lake Chelan. Travis serves as winemaker and has completed the WSU Viticulture Certificate program.  I love the new 2025 Amos Rome Albarino (OB, 92) which comes off round and generous on the mouth. Learn more at https://www.amosrome.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Amos Rome wines.

2025 Amos Rome Albariño- The 2025 Amos Rome Albarino offers a rich mouthfeel with loads of kiwi and cantalope flavors alongside green papaya notes. Salty, with good length, enjoy now and over the next five to seven years. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2025 Amos Rome ‘Sandstone’ Gruner Veltliner- The 2025 ‘Sandstone’ Gruner Veltliner comes from their estate vineyard. It is inviting and lush on the mouth, as rich honeydew melon and green papaya tones mingle well with hints of mango on the palate. This is really good, textural stuff that is meant to not serve too cold. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2025 Amos Rome ‘Dionne’s Vineyard’ Chenin Blanc- Sourced from a property near their estate vineyard in the Lake Chelan AVA, this 2025 Chenin Blanc Ofers honeysuckle water and ripe peach on the palate with copious minerals and a silky mouthfeel on the palate. Enjoy now. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2022 Amos Rome ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- A late release for this wine, the 2022 Chardonnay comes from Block ’98 at their estate vineyard. Golden in the glass, this reveals rich nectarine and brioche flavors that combine with hints of ripe pineapple on the palate. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2025 Amos Rome ‘Meraki Vineyard’ Rose- Made from Cabernet Franc grapes, this 2025 Rose is brimming with bright acidity. Yakima cherry and pear flavors combine with salty soils and hints of cantalope on the palate. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2023 Amos Rome ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc- The 2023 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc shows chocolate and dried herbs on the nose with hints of wet gravel and cardamom. The palate is juicy and elegant with a smooth mouthfeel and lighter green peppercorn and yellow bell pepper notes alongside medium-bodied and slightly sweet dark fruits. Drink 2026-2032- 91

TOR

One of the famed Napa houses, TOR was founded by Tor Kenward who formerly spent 26 years building Beringer Vineyards into a national power. As their vice president he was instrumental in helping develop the brand into national prominence before retiring in 2001. I loved the Beringer Reserve wines of the 1990s and 2000s which were some of Napa’s great wines and Tor played a major role in that project. Beringer actually paid for Tor to study viticulture and enology following his retirement, as Tor built his brand as an ultra-premium producer single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons, sourcing from the top blocks within premium sites throughout Napa Valley. This electric lineup sources from famed sites such as Beckstoffer To Kalon, Vine Hill Ranch and Tierra Roja in Oakville, and Melanson on Pritchard Hill.

TOR makes some of the finest Chardonnay in the Napa Valley. I adored the thrilling 2024 ‘Cuvee Susan’ (OB, 97) which is up there with the finest California Chardonnay I have tasted in the past year. Once again I was totally blown away with the 2024 TOR ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 100) which is a perfect wine made from this powerful vintage. Learn more about these dazzling wines at https://torwines.com Here are the gorgeous new wines by TOR. 

2024 TOR ‘Cuvee Susan’ Chardonnay- One of the outstanding Chardonnay bottlings I have tasted in the past year, the thrilling 2024 ‘Cuvee Susan’ comes from the Hyde Vineyard in the Carneros region. It is big, deep and powerful, yet maintains amazing freshness and salty minerality. Ripe melon and roasted pineapple fruits combine with shades of salted Macadamia nut on the palate. This finishes for nearly a minute long! Enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 97

2024 TOR ‘Oakville’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 ‘Oakville’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Double H Ranch and Renteria 360 Vineyards. As far as entry level Cabernets go, you are going to be hard-pressed to find one more evocative. Once on the nose this shows lifted black and red florals that mingle well with graphite, green herbs, espressos grounds and shades of black licorice. The palate is neatly-textured and elegant, as this comes off remarkably weightless — with no rough edges. Glorious now, watch this evolve over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2026-2039- 95

2024 TOR ‘Vine Hill Ranch’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The world-class 2024 TOR ‘Vine Hill Ranch’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from this famed location in the Oakville AVA. The wine was basket pressed and then stored in roughly 80% new French oak for 20 months before bottling. It is dense and inky in the glass, offering Turkish coffee violets and tar on the nose with pencil lead notes. The palate is refined and concentrated, showing both amazing power and tension, with great loamy soil character. Very elegant despite the obvious opulence and refined mouthfeel, this is already drinking beautifully now. Give it an hour or two in the decanter if savoring in its heady youth. Drink 2026-2048- 98

2024 TOR ‘Vaca Ridge Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Another gorgeous edition of this wine, the 2024 TOR ‘Vaca Ridge Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a four-barrel wine sourced from iron-rich, rocky slopes of the Vaca Mountains. On the nose this shows off red and dark rose petals with smoldering stones, dark currants and hints of sweet pipe tobacco. The palate is heady and rich with great minerality and stony character. Leading long with copious rocky minerals, savor this beauty now and over the next twenty plus years to come. Drink 2026-2048- 97

2024 TOR ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The otherworldly 2024 ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon was stored for twenty months in a combination of Darnajou and Taransaud French oak barrel (80% new) before bottling.  It is weightless, powerful and concentrated wine that really needs several hours in the decanter before it fully unveils. Plush blue and black fruits line the palate with gravelly loam, cigar box, Asian spices and shades of creme de violette on the palate. Really just an infant, the non-fruit character of this wine is really singing in its high octave. Drink 2027-2052- 100

Stereograph

Some great wines out of Napa, Stereograph is a collaboration between winemaker Sally Johnson Blum and her husband Max. They are part of SJB Winemaking, a full-service winemaking firm providing winemaking services for a number of small brands both in Napa Valley and and outside of the valley. Sally makes the wines while Max creates the labels and packaging.

Sally has a Master’s in Winemaking from UC Davis formerly working at St. Francis Winery for 8 years before moving to Pride Vineyards winemaker for 15 years. She makes some beautiful wines for The Walls in Washington State.

I love her new wines. Check out the amazing 2025 Stereograph Semillon (OB, 94) which is hugely complex and beautifully-textured stuff. Learn more at https://www.stereographwines.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Stereograph Wines.

2025 Stereograph Fiano- A dense and hedy bottling, the 2025 Stereograph Fiano offers rich melon and kiwi flavors alongside its smooth texture and excellent length. Big, bold and brawny, yet maintaining fabulous structure, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next six to eight years. Don’t serve too cold! Drink 2026-2033- 93

2025 Stereograph Chenin Blanc- The 2025 Stereograph Chenin Blanc comes from the Henry Ranch in the Napa Valley. Hay and green herbs mark the nose alongside shades of bright starfruit. The palate is loaded with rich cantalope and Pink Lady apple flavors, with walnut and salty minerals. Complex and neatly-textured, enjoy now and over the next six plus years to come. Drink 2026-2032- 93

2025 Stereograph Semillon- A unique wine to the region, this 2025 Semillon is silky, delicious and dense stuff to savor. A light dusting of citrus rind combines with green papaya, mango and Japanese pear notes on the palate. Offering nutty and damp earthy undertones, with excellent length, enjoy this show-stopper now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2024 Stereograph Cabernet Franc- The 2024 Stereograph Cabernet Franc offers green herbs and ebullient red florals that combine with cassis notes on the nose. The palate is heady, dense and refined with a pillowy texture and unctuous mouthfeel. Layers of heady black fruits combine with tar, Arabica bean and light herbal undertones. A stunning edition of this wine, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2024 Stereograph Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 Stereograph Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous wine that is great to drink in its heady youth. Once on the nose this takes on violets, scorched earth and loamy soil notes alongside blackberry cordial. The palate is dense and decadent as this glides throughout the drinking experience. Beautifully-textured, savor this outstanding wine now and over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 96

Sequitur

Today we share a knockout producer of Pinot Noir. Sequitur was founded by Mike Etzel and Carey Critchlow and for years Etzel had sights on developing a property which is adjacent to his famed ‘Upper Terrace Vineyard.’ Between 2012 and 2014 Mike and Carrie planted the 12-acre Sequitur vineyard . Various clonal selections (Wädenswil, Coury, Swan, Calera, Eyrie, Mt. Eden, Rochioli, and Martin Ray) here are tightly spaced, as this biodynamically farmed vineyard is a truly unique site with large Fir trees that line the property. I have visited this incredible property and it is impeccably farmed.

They make a small amount of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay each vintage. They produce a small amount of “Amphora” Pinot Noir which is fermented and aged in an Italian clay amphora. They’ve made White Pinot Noir in 2020 that was incredible. The new wines were amazing across the board. Do not miss out on the 2024 Sequitur ‘Ribbong Ridge AVA’ Chardonnay (OB, 96) which his hugely complex and offers some insanely good value at $75 dollars retail.

Learn more about these special, limited production wines at https://www.sequiturwine.com Here is the glorious new release wines by Sequitur. 

2024 Sequitur ‘Ribbon Ridge AVA’ Chardonnay- Now a decade old, the 2024 Sequitur ‘Ribbon Ridge AVA’ Chardonnay comes from this acclaimed site that neighbors Beaux Freres winery. Vibrant yellow in the glass, this opens with flinty nuances alongside brioche bread, yellow plum and lemon blossom that all take shape in the glass. The palate is laden with tension and nerve, with a terrific flavor density and mouthfeel. This is seamless throughout the drinking experience. One of the outstanding Oregon Chardonnays I have tasted in the past year, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Only $75 bucks a bottle, this offers formidable value. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2024 Sequitur ‘Ribbon Ridge AVA’ Pinot Noir- Powerful and complex, the 2024 Sequitur ‘Ribbon Ridge AVA’ Pinot Noir offers purple flowers and boysenberry tones on the nose alongside shades of red currants and exotic spices. The palate is beautifully weighted and textured, as this glides throughout the drinking experience. Loaded with red and dark fruits with hints of wintergreen and fresh sage, enjoy this tension-filled Pinot Noir over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 96

Finite Cellars

Today we share the wines of a new Oregon project, Finite Cellars. The winery was founded by Benjamin Eyer and Stephanie Bojarski . Ben left his Organic Chemistry PhD program with a Masters because he wanted to be outside, speak Spanish, and use his chemistry knowledge to make wine - the ultimate combination of art and science.”  Ben has spent over a decade making wine in Chile, California and Oregon.

The wines are made in small batches utilizing eco-conscious packaging and reusable bottles that can be returned to be used again.

The wines were really good. I love the 2024 Finite Cellarse ‘Laurelwood District’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is soft and refined — drinking beautifully now. Learn more at https://finitecellars.com/ and here are my reviews of their new wines.

2024 Finite Cellars ‘Laurelwood District’ Chardonnay- The beautifully-crafted 2024 Finite Cellars ‘Laurelwood District’ Chardonnay is a dense, mineral-laden bottling that is drinking beautifully right now. On the nose this takes on ripe peach and wet stone notes alongside shades of orange blossom. The palate is neatly-texture and viscous with excellent length. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2024 Finite Cellars ‘Gemini Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2024 ‘Gemini Vineyard’ comes from the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Once on the nose this takes on blood orange zest and cardamom dusted red fruits with salty soil nuances. The palate is rich and pure, with gorgeous red fruits and red floral water that combines with shades of Yakima cherry on the palate. Drink 2026-2040- 93

2024 Finite Cellars ‘RPG Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Coming from the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, the 2024 Finite Cellars ‘RPG Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows rich red and dark fruits on the palate, with rocky and salty soil accents, alongside hints of pipe tobacco. Medium to full-bodied wth a smooth texture, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2040- 94

Passing Time

It was a beautiful Wednesday evening and I was seated at the table with Passing Time co-founder Damon Huard and winemaker Chris Peterson. We chatted NFL and Husky football as we tasted through the thrilling lineup of 2024 wines.

“’24 is going to be a really great vintage” said Peterson, as he described this warm vintage with few heat spikes. “I think you are going to see amazing quality across the board” he said as we tasted the amazing future release wines.

Over time Passing Time has gained prominence for producing some of the best Merlot in Washington state. “I think this is our best Merlot” said Damon and I have to agree that this 2024 is up there with the finest Merlot wines in the state.

What began with the 2012 vintage, Passing Time is now been in business for more than a decade. I was amazed by the new lineup. I tasted these wines on two occasions over two days. Do not miss out on the otherworldly 2024 Passing Time ‘Block 1311’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 100) which is once again a perfect wine made from the Wallula Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. This masterclass has a dense black fruit core that pushes blue fruit character and is utterly seamless throughout the drinking experience. Learn more about this famed boutique winery at http://www.passingtime.com Here is my reviews of the future release 2024 Passing Time wines.

2024 Passing Time ‘Columbia Valley’ Merlot- All Merlot this vintage from the Columbia Valley, this is primarily sourced from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Stored in 60% new French oak this opens with black cherry and milk chocolate alongside sagebrush notes. The palate is velvety and soft with a refined mouthfeel and great earthy undertones. Concentrated and powerful, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2042- 96

2024 Passing Time ‘Columbia Valley’ Red Wine- The 2024 Passing Time ‘Columbia Valley’ Red Wine is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (92%) with a small amount of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Mainly from the Lady Hawk and Seven Hills Vineyards, this offers kirsch cordial and creme de cassis notes alongside Cuban cigar notes on the nose. The palate is plush and refined with terrific flavor density. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2024 Passing Time ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Mainly sourced from two blocks at the Seven Hills Vineyard, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was stored for 20 months in 70% new French oak before bottling. This comes off fat and round on the mouth with a dense mouthfeel and refined tannins. Blueberry compote, loamy soils, dark currants, pencil lead and shades of black licorice combine with dried herbs on the palate. Drink 2026-2044- 97

2024 Passing Time ‘Red Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 Passing Time ‘Red Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon was mainly sourced from the Klipsun Vineyard as well as the Red Mountain and Heart of the Hill Vineyards. Jet black in the glass, this offers tar and tobacco leaf alongside shades of graphite and beautiful black florals that all meld in the glass. The palate is dense and delicious with a seamless mouthfeel and serious power, with underlying tension. This has to be the best Passing Time ‘Red Mountain’ made yet. Drink 2026-2050- 98

2024 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon has 8% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc blended in. Very inky in the glass, this opens with violets, tar and dark chocolate shavings alongside sweet pipe tobacco on the nose. The palate is silky and refined with a silky texture and refined mouthfeel. This comes up velvet and soft, as this is up there with the finest Horse Heaven Hills bottling by Passing Time that I have tasted. Drink 2026-2050- 98

2024 Passing Time ‘Block 1311’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The one wine out of the lineup from a single vineyard, the ‘Block 1311’ is a barrel selection wine from the Wallula Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. This is only farmed at 1.7 tons an acre. Inky in the glass, this opens with a gorgeous melange of black rose petals alongside tar, anise, creme de violets and hints of fresh sage. The palate is utterly seamless throughout the drinking experience with a massive core of black and blue fruits. The blue fruit character offers plenty of exotic appeal. Irresistible and world-class, grab this total heavyhitter while you can. Drink 2026-2052- 100

Quilceda Creek Acquires Full Ownership of Champoux Vineyard

Today we share the news that Quilceda Creek has purchased the remaining shares of the famed Champoux Vineyard. This is one of the state’s most iconic and historically significant sites. Located in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, Champoux Vineyard is recognized globally for its distinctive terroir and for producing some of the world’s most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignons—powerful wines known for their gorgeous fruit, balanced acidity and elegant tannins. Originally planted in the early 1970s and 80s, Quilceda Creek has sourced fruit from Champoux since 1986 and has gradually increased its ownership over the last 30 years, previously acquiring a 79% stake in August 2021. The property is comprised of 170 acres, with 153 acres planted to vine. Since the 2001 vintage, Champoux has been the source of the winery’s flagship Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. 

“Champoux has noble tannin that creates a suave texture so unique to the site that it cannot be replicated. We are honored and humbled to take care of this special piece of land,” says President and Director of Winemaking Paul Golitzin. 

Golitzin stated “we see this as an estate property for the long run.” I have been so impressed with the quality of the wines from this location and their famed Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is now nearly entirely sourced from this acclaimed Horse Heaven Hills location. Congrats to Quilceda Creek on this exciting development.

Kobayashi

It is my pleasure to write about one of the most electric wine brands of the Pacific Northwest. Kobayashi is a jewel of Washington, founded by Mario and Travis Allen. I have known this couple now for more than a decade and they are some of the great people in Washington wine. Travis Allen is doing some incredible things with his lineup.

You are going to be blown away with the 2023 ‘Mizanura’ Cabernet Franc (OB, 100) which is now the second time I have tasted this beauty. Sleek, elegant and seamless throughout the drinking experience, this is quite simply a must-buy for any serious collector of Washington wine. Learn more at https://kobayashiwinery.com and here are my reviews of the sensational new wines by Kobayashi winery. 

2023 Kobayashi ‘Mizunara’ Cabernet Franc- This is now the second time that I have reviewed the unforgettable 2023 ‘Mizunara’ which was sourced from old vine Cabernet Franc at the Red Willow Vineyard. This is just as polished and seamless as when I first tried this beauty in November 2025. Creme de violette, tar, blackberry compote, Arabica bean and dusty soils all come together on the palate alongside serious texture and verve. The wafts of blue fruits that come into the flavor profile with impeccable opulence really add to the enjoyment. Pillowy and soft, enjoy this beauty over the next twenty plus years to come. Drink 2026-2050- 100

Domaine Serene

My first visit to was back Domaine Serene in 2002. I was floored by the overall quality of the wines as i tasted on a patio with breathtaking views of the Willamette Valley. There have been many changes at the winery since 2002 but the wines have been getting better and better over time.

Founded by Dundee Hills pioneers Grace and Ken Evenstad, Domaine Serene is one of the most gorgeous settings for any winery in the Pacific Northwest. They have a world-class hospitality program and share many older wines with their patrons. The wines cellar exceedingly well as I have enjoyed many Serene wines that are ten or more years of age.

I am so impressed with the sparkling wine program at Domaine Serene. I love the 2016 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 96) which shows refined bubbles and great secondary notes now. Once again I was blown away with the new ‘Monogram’ Pinot Noir. Their 2021 Domaine Serene ‘Monogram’ Pinot Noir (OB, 99) flirts with perfection. It is the finest Pinot Noir from Oregon that I have tasted in the past year. Learn more about this famed Oregon estate at http://domaineserene.com/ Here are the incredible new release wines by Domaine Serene.

2016 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- Arguably the best sparkling wine that I have tasted from this house, the 2016 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine spent more than five years on the lees prior to disgorgement. Japanese pear, wild mushroom, salted French bread and shades of candied ginger all combine on the palate, with a refined mousse and excellent sense of weight. Drinking marvelously right now, enjoy over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru’ Chardonnay- One of the great Chardonnays I have tasted from this vintage, the world-class 2023 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru’ Chardonnay offers amazing flavor density, intensity as well as weight and length. It has a stunning core of melon and citrus fruits that combine with wafts of diatom, white truffle and copious stony minerals on the palate. The near minute-long finish just won’t quit. Glorious now in its mineral-laden youth, watch this evolve over the next fifteen years. Tasted twice, with the second bottle shining the most brightly. Drink 2026-2041- 97

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Aspect’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘Aspect’ was sourced from the Triple Crown and Winery Hill Vineyards in the Dundee Hills. It is big, rich and very nervy on the mouth, with terrific rocky and salty soil expression. Unctuous and broad-shouldered, with its mango, pineapple and Pink Lady apple core alongside excellent freshness, this warm vintage beauty is already starting to show its stride. Enjoy now and over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2023 Domaine Serene 'Cote Sud Vineyard' Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Cote Sud’ Pinot Noir comes from this dry-farmed, 23 acre location in the Dundee Hills. This comes off wonderfully rocky on the nose with smoldering stones alongside red rose petals, Mandarin orange rind and hints of wintergreen. The palate is elegant and refined with a great viscosity and mid-palate depth and flavor density. Gorgeous to consume now, with a fabulous mineral backbone, watch this evolve over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Jerusalem Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The Jerusalem Hill Vineyard is set in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA at 200-300 feet on an eastern-facing slope. A brilliant melange of red and dark fruits greet you on the nose with tobacco leaf and damp soil accents. The palate is filled with freshness and nerve, with a lifted core of pomegranate and marionberry fruits alongside salty and stony nuances. A total stunner, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Member’s Limited Release’ Pinot Noir- Now in its sixth edition, the 2023 Domaine Serene ‘Member’s Limited Release’ Pinot Noir comes from rocky and marine sedimentary soils. It is medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a great melange of red and dark fruits interwoven with kumquat zest and crushed wet gravel nuances. Gorgeous to consume now, enjoy over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 95

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Two Barns’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2023 ‘Two Barns’ was sourced from this 35 acre location on the west side of the Dundee Hills AVA. On the nose this takes on potpourri notes and smoldering stones alongside black cherry compote and shades of wintergreen. The palate is big and dense with a core of black and red fruits with terrific freshness and minerality. Finishing long with black raspberry notes, this is drinking marvelously in its heady youth. Drink 2026-2042- 96

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Mark Bradford’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Mark Bradford’ is sourced from this dry-farmed location set at 660-800 feet in the Dundee Hills AVA. The rocky character from the Jory soils is immediately apparent on the palate, as this glides throughout the drinking experience, showing amazing stony and salty character.  Boysenberry and tobacco leaf notes combine on the palate, with refined tannins and serious structure. This really needs another year for everything to come together — but the massive potential is there! Drink 2027-2050- 97

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Grace’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Grace’ is an ethereal effort that is one of the finest Pinot Noirs I have tasted this year. The wine is sourced from an eastern-facing slope that is set on Jory soils. Once on the nose this shows off red rose petals and black cherry notes that combine with cardamom dusted pastry crust and shades of red licorice. The palate is plush and refined as silky tannins frame an ebullient core of red and dark fruits. Like the ’23 ‘Mark Bradford’ this really needs a year or two to fully settle. Give it at least two hours in the decanter if consuming now. Drink 2027-2050- 98

2021 Domaine Serene ‘Monogram’ Pinot Noir- As was the case with the 2018 and ’19 bottlings, the 2021 Domaine Serene ‘Monogram’ is once again the finest Oregon Pinot Noir that I have tasted all year. It is a velvety, refined Pinot Noir that saw extended barrel and bottle age. The oak influence here is so wonderful in terms of caressing the fruit and non-fruit flavors. Mainly black-fruit driven, with lighter red fruit nuances, with more air this shows glorious black truffle shavings, with hints of Cuban cigar, allspice and clove dusted black licorice and faint peat moss character, with loads of rocky soil nuance. Full-throttle and intense, yet maintaining gobs of nerve and stony minerality, this will easily age for another twenty plus years — but is completely irresistible in its heady youth now at the five year mark. Give this total heavyhitter an hour in the decanter and watch it evolve. You are going to be blown away with this wine. Drink 2027-2055- 99

Doubleback

It is my great pleasure to share the outstanding wines of Doubleback, which is the brainchild of NFL legend, Drew Bledsoe and his wife, Maura. The idea behind the winery is how Drew circled back following his brilliant NFL career. A Walla Walla native, Drew was a star quarterback at Walla Walla High School before an illustrious tenure at Washington State University. For many years Drew had visions of starting his own winery for many years and going back to Walla Walla was the perfect choice for him. During his years in the NFL he continued to expand his palate, trying various wines of the world. He knew there was something special about this region. In 2007 that Drew returned to Walla Walla to plant his estate vineyard, McQueen on the southern end of the Walla Walla Valley AVA.

Then in 2008 Bledsoe began focusing on using top estate fruit to make Cabernet Sauvignon from the Walla Walla Valley. He needed a top class winemaker and connected with childhood friend and superstar winemaker, Chris Figgins, of Leonetti Cellar, who served as consulting winemaker until Josh McDaniels assumed the role in 2015. Josh is a great person to chat wine with. He is one of the great winemaking talents in the Pacific Northwest.

The finest wine I have ever had from this estate was the 2024 Doubleback ‘Estate Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 100) which leaves no doubt that it is perfection in a bottle. Dense, rich and unctuous with a seamless character, this is one for the cellar and any serious collector of Washington wine. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.doubleback.com/ and here are my reviews of the gorgeous new 2024 release wines by Doubleback and Bledsoe Family Wines.

2023 Bledsoe Family Wines ‘Bob Healy’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Bledsoe Family Wines ‘Bob Healy’ Cabernet Sauvignon is dense and delicious showing creme de violette, tar, anise and rocky soil nuances on the palate. Big and bold with refined tannins, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2024 Bledsoe Family Winery ‘Bob Healy’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Coming from this site near the Ferguson Vineyard, the 2024 ‘Bob Healy’ is plush and refined throughout the drinking experience. A melange of red and dark Frits combine with chocolate pie and arabica bean on the palate. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2024 Bledsoe Family Wines ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 Bledsoe Family Wines ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows black florals, anise and dark currant notes with shades of graphite. The palate is juicy and delicious with plenty of power and flavor density. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2024 Doubleback Chardonnay- Coming from several sites, the amazing 2024 Doubleback chardonnay is opulent and also nervy despite the warmth of the vintage. A terrific combination of melon and tropical fruits combine with shades of yellow plum on the palate. This is nothing short of world-class Chardonnay. Drink 2026-2040- 96

2024 Doubleback ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Jet black in the glass, this comes from the McQueen and Lefore Vineyards. This vintage they could not harvest from the Shafer Vineyard. Stored in a small amount of concrete as well as foudre and new French oak, this opens with violets, tar, pencil leaf and shades of creme de cassis. The palate is silky and refined with serious power and poise. This will easily cellar for twenty years. Drink 2026-2046- 97

2024 Doubleback ‘Estate Reserve’ Red Wine- This is the first time that the ‘Estate Reserve’ is all Cabernet Sauvignon. Stored in mainly new French oak (85%) before bottling, this is a powerful, heady and intense bottling that deftly reflects the warmth of the vintage. The nose shows violet roses petals, walnut and shades of creme de cassis with Turkish coffee notes. The palate is utterly seamless throughout the drinking experience, as the beautiful oak treatment texturally harnesses the fruit and non-fruit character that all sing in unison. Drink 2027-2055- 100

2024 Doubleback ‘McQueen Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon-A wine made only for customers who have bought 10 vintages of the wine, the 2024 Doubleback ‘McQueen Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon. Back tea and black rose petals combine with mocha, scorched earth and light herbal tones all combine on the nose. The palate is big and bold with a refined texture and amazing sense of weight. This finishes long with creme de violette and salty/stony notes. Only 50 cases made. Drink 2026-2050- 99