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. 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

Bledsoe | McDaniels

It is my pleasure to share one of the electric newer brands of the Pacific Northwest.  NFL Legend Drew Bledsoe and superstar winemaker, Josh McDaniels combined to form Bledsoe-McDaniels and they now are one of the outstanding producers of Oregon Pinot Noir. What was formerly the Hope Wells Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills, they have purchased this site a few years back and are producing some incredible estate wines from this site. They have made a Rocks wine from their ‘Lefore Vineyard’ which has gotten better and better over the years.

Don’t miss out on the 2024 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘LFG Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir (OB, 94) which is forward and juicy stuff with a terrific texture and acid backbone. Even better is the thrilling 2024 ‘Before Vineyard’ Syrah (OB, 97) which is by far the best edition of this wine yet. Learn more about this outstanding winery project at http://bledsoemcdaniels.com/#top Here are the beautiful new wines by Bledsoe-McDaniels.

2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘LFG’ Pinot Noir- The 2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘LFG’ Pinot Noir offers dried herbs and potpourri that combines with ripe raspberries and Bing cherry. This saw 20% whole cluster fermentation as it shows off refined tannins with a terrific combination of red and dark fruits with peat moss accents. Drink 2026-2040- 94

2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Eola-Amity Hills’ Pinot Noir- The 2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Eola-Amity Hills’ Pinot Noir shows gorgeous red florals on the nose with river rock and sandalwood tones. Roughly 20% whole cluster fermented this comes off ultra-refined and seamless throughout the drinking experience. A generous melange of red and dark fruits combine with tobacco leaf and stony undertones. Drink 2026-2040- 96

2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Coulee Estate’ Pinot Noir- Sourceed from their iestate vineyard, set on a range of soil types including Marine Sedimentary and Nekkia, this 2024 Pinot Noir opens with dark florals that combine with black cherry and walnut notes. The palate is ultra-refined and pillowy on the tongue. Bright acidity combines wit orange peel, bergamot, wintergreen and dense red and dark fruits on the palate. Drink 2026-2040- 96

2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Lefore Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2024 ‘Lefore’ is the only Rocks District bottling in their collection. This was roughly 50% whole cluster fermented and was stored in primarily natural oak before bottling. Umami and green olives combine with dark currants, charcuterie and shades of black raspberry all combine on the nose. The palate is deep and powerful with insanely good flavor range. This is seriously so delicious in its highly complex youth. Drink now. Drink 2026-2034- 97

2024 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘McQueen Estate’ Syrah- Only a tiny amount of this wine was made from the high elevation ‘McQueen Estate.’ Set on fractured basalt, only one puncheon of this wine was made. Inky in the glass, this delivers wet rock and creme de cassis with anise and Asian spices that all combine in the glass. The palate is powerful and dense with great rocky soil character. Drink 2026-2040- 96

Open Claim

It is my pleasure to share the brilliant wines of Open Claim. What began in 2014 by Marnie and Brett Wall, Open Claim crafts an opulent, textured style of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that are complete wines with a beginning, middle and end. They use a limited amount of new oak, despite their fleshy character. Tony Rynders is of the Pacific Northwest’s great winemakers Formerly with Hogue and Domaine Serene, Tony crafts some incredible wines for his own label, Tendril. He has been the winemaker at Open Claim and is doing an incredible job with this site. I have long enjoyed these wines that showcase a beginning, middle and end.

I am totally enamored by the 2023 Open Claim ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir (OB, 96) which is one of the more memorable ‘Estate’ bottlings I can remember. Big and bold with serious flavor density and range, this is beautiful right now. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.openclaimvineyards.com/ Here are the brilliant 2021 and older releases by Open Claim. 

2023 Open Claim ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- The stunning 2023 ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir is another sensational wine made by Tony Rynders. Dark in the glass, this revels in Asian spices and boysenberry compote notes on the nose alongside wafts of white truffle, kumquat rind and shades of wintergreen. The palate is seamless and full of richness and bright acidity, as this delivers a glorious melange of red and dark fruits with tangerine peel and salty nuances. Beautifully-textured, with outstanding weight and length, enjoy this total stunner now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2023 Open Claim ‘Fauna’s Wood’ Pinot Noir- The brilliant 2023 Open Claim ‘Fauna’s Wood’ Pinot Noir comes from Pinot Noir plantings that reflect native white oak woodlands bordering the estate. Stored in 40% new French oak for 16 months, this is a gorgeous, dense and neatly- textured bottling that shows off serious tension and weight. Dark raspberry and Bing cherry notes combine with gravel and salty soils on the palate. A joy to consume now, watch this evolve over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 96

Revana

Today we share the wines of famed cardiologist Dr. Madaiah Revana. Dr. Revana also owns a world-class Oregon winery named after his daughter, Alexana, as well as Corazon del Sol in Argentina. A big purchase was made in 1997 as Dr. Revana immediately sensed the property’s potential, with its gravelly soils, sloped pitch, and excellent exposures seemed perfect for growing grapes. Soil studies also confirmed that the property would be perfect for growing Bordeaux varieties. Then in 1998, Dr. Revana hired acclaimed vineyard manager Jim Barbour to plant and maintain the 9-acre estate vineyard. The first vintage of Revana in 2001, initially utilizing the winemaking talents of Heidi Barrett.

Revana did an incredible job managing the heat of 2022. The wines from 2023 are more poised and show excellent flavor density and underlying tension. I love the 2023 Revana ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 100) which is nothing short of a perfect wine. Learn more about these beautiful wines at https://www.revanawine.com Here are the last two world-class releases by Revana.

2023 Revana ‘Estate Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Delightful and dense in the glass, the 2023 ‘Estate Vineyard’ comes from this small site in Saint Helena. Set on gravelly loam soils. Cassis and loamy soils fill the nose alongside sweet pipe tobacco. The palate is decadent and dense with a terrific tension, flavor density and smooth mouthfeel. Already beautifully evolved, enjoy over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2023 Revana ‘RX’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Revana ‘RX’ Cabernet Sauvignon is silky and refined on the mouth. Dense black fruits, chocolate, damp soils and graphite combine on the palate. Showing excellent viscosity and length, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2023 Revana ‘Shifflett Ranch’ Red Wine- Sourced from the Oak Knoll District, the 2023 ‘Shifflett Ranch combines Cabernet Franc with Merlot. Arabica bean flavors combine with dark currant cordial, milk chocolate and rocky soil nuances on the palate. Pillowy and soft throughout the drinking experience, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 98

2023 Revana ‘Stelzner Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The brilliant 2023 ‘Stelzner Vineyard’ was sourced from the Stag’s Leap District. Mocha, tar and anise all fill the nose with rocky soils. The palate is seamless and plush with dense black mountain fruits alongside creme de cassis flavors. Decadent and delicious, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 99

2023 Revana ‘Stone River’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Rutherford appellation, the 2023 Revana ‘Stone River’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows violets, tar and black currants on the nose. This is silky, elegant and seamless throughout the drinking experience. Decadent black and blue fruits combine with copious stony minerals and loamy soils on the palate. Drink 2026-2043- 99

2023 Revana ‘Cold Springs Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Cold Springs vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon vines from this location are set on volcanic soils. The palate has amazing soil character as this jet-black beauty offers dark chocolate shavings, sandalwood and creme de violette on the palate. Stunning now, this flirts with perfection and is best enjoyed over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 99

2023 Revana ‘Tip Top’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Coming from the Edcora Vineyard, the 2023 ‘Tip Top’ shows beautiful dark florals on the nose with chocolate and fresh sage. The palate is soft and inviting with a smooth mouthfeel and gorgeous texture. Showing great length and rocky soil character, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 98

2023 Revana ‘Estate Block 6’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The stunning 2023 ‘Estate Block 6’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from their estate vineyard in Saint Helena. Black licorice, fresh sage, blackberry compote and shades of dark chocolate all mark the palate. Dense and rich with a terrific underlying acidity and sensational flavor density, savor this beauty now and over the next twenty years. Drink 2026-2044- 100

2023 Revana ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from this famed site, the To Kalon Vineyard was first planted in the 1860s. Jet black in the glass, this delivers a voluptuous mouthfeel with amazing concentration, power and poise. Offering amazing weight and flavor density with amazing loamy soil nuance, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2044- 100

2023 Revana ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Block C1’ Cabernet Sauvignon- An otherworldly bottling, the 2023 Revana ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Block C1’ Cabernet Sauvignon offers tar, sandalwood and mocha on the nose with damp earthy nuances. This leaves no doubt of perfection in a bottle. Decadent black and blue fruits combine with rocky and loamy soils on the palate. Unforgettable, with loads of weight and length, savor this Beaty over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2026-2044- 100

Evidence

Founded by Jason Court, Evidence Wines has an outstanding range that spans the Napa Valley. At 39 years old Court worked his first harvest and became entrenched in wine culture. Prior to wine Court was an actor known for roles in Septerra Core and Silk Stalkings. He spent seven years training under eminent winemaker Chris Carpenter at La Jota and Lokoya. I have never tried these wines and they are completely new to my palate.

Court has a great winemaking style, one that focuses on purity, non-fruit character and poise. The wines are rich but not overripe. They are made with serious intention.

I love the 2023 Evidence ‘Mt. Veeder’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 95) and while I am not at all familiar with this vineyard site, the wine is lush, showing amazing stony character. Learn more at

2025 Evidence Grenache Blanc- Sourced from the Bennett Valley, this 2025 Grenache Blanc shows off kiwi, lychee and orange blossom notes on the nose. The palate is beautifully-textured, with a terrific push/pull between weight and bright underlying finesse. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Evidence ‘Spring Mountain Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Jet black in the glass, the 2023 ‘Spring Mountain Vineyard’ offers pencil lead and purple wildflower notes on the nose alongside shades of creme de cassis. The palate is lush and rich with terrific texture, alongside its weight and stony edge. Medium to full-bodied, with bright acidity, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2023 Evidence ‘Mt. Veeder’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 ‘Mt. Veeder’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from the Bruadair Vineyard, as this was stored for 18 months in 70% new French oak before bottling. This is rich, decadent and well-structured stuff that wonderfully coats the mid-palate. Dark chocolate shavings collide with graphite, volcanic rock, sandalwood and creme de violette on the palate. Seriously good, watch this evolve over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2042- 95

2023 Evidence ‘Coombsville’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The outstanding 2023 Evidence ‘Coombsville’ Cabernet Sauvignon has 4% Cabernet Franc blended in. Stored in primarily new French oak, this delivers tar, mocha and purple rose petals on the nose. The palette is lush and rich with beautiful tension and poise alongside a gorgeous core of black fruits, with chocolate pie and stony minerals. Drink 2026-2042- 95

Shafer

One of Napa’s outstanding wineries, Shafer has a great history in the region. The site of the current winery had grape growing and commercial winemaking since 1880, during Napa Valley’s first boom as an American wine country. Napa’s pioneer vintners not only filled San Francisco’s wine cellars, but shipped wine across the country and earned gold medals at the 1889 Paris Exposition. John Shafer, a Chicago publishing executive, purchased our site in 1972 and spent the mid-1970s planting the hillside estate to Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1978 John transitioned to full-scale winemaking, making the winery’s first Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1983 John’s son, Doug Shafer, joined the winery as winemaker. The following year, Elias Fernandez joined the winery, initially as assistant winemaker. Fernandez has been winemaker since 1994.

I love the new 2024 ‘Red Shoulder Ranch’ Chardonnay (OB, 94) which is rich, viscous and has amazing flavor range. Learn more about this historic winery at https://shafervineyards.com

Here are my reviews of the new wines by Shafer.

2024 Shafer ‘Red Shoulder Ranch’ Chardonnay- Sourced from this slightly cooler site overlooking the San Francisco Bay, the 2024 ‘Red Shoulder Ranch’ delivers marzipan, Japanese pear and lemon curd notes on the nose with hints of pineapple cream. The palate is laden with tension and richness, as copious minerals greet you alongside a core of tropical and melon fruits. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Shafer ‘TD-9’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 ‘TD-9’ is inspired by John Shafer’s first tractor, the TD-9 International Harvester. This has 11% Merlot, 7% Malbec, 7% Petit Verdot and was stored in 60% new French oak before bottling. It comes of juicy, rich and beautifully-textured, with a great acid backbone. Drink 2026-2042- 94

2026 Method Oregon Report

Today it is my pleasure to release the first comprehensive Method Oregon Report. A non-profit organization dedicated to establishing Oregon as a world-class sparkling wine region, Method Oregon champions Oregon’s fast-growing traditional method sparkling wine movement. Wines from Method Oregon must be made in Oregon, spend at least 24 months en tirage, and by 2029 they must be sustainably farmed and show the disgorgement date.

I’ve been enjoying Oregon Sparkling wines from my personal collection since roughly 2002 and fondly recall the amazing Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ bottlings from the late 1990s. These were some of the wines that put Oregon Sparkling Wine on the world stage. Legendary producer Rollin Soles started this movement and continues today to impress with his namesake ROCO label. Today Kate Payne Browne continues this movement for Argyle.

Wines for this report come from a range of vintages, generally spanning from 2018-2022. 2018 its one of he great vintages in Oregon for both Pinot and Chardonnay as this vintage boasted warm weather and few 100 degree days, with some sensational diurnal shifts. I won’t forget one August day that was 100 degrees during the day and then in the 40s at night! The diurnal shifts during August caused some seriously good tension in the wines that were already quite rich.

2019 on the other hand was more challenging for still wines and was cooler — one that was really mineral-laden and nervy for sparkling wines. Sparkling wines from this vintage might not have the flavor density of 2018 but show really well in terms of finesse and nuance. The soil character from this vintage is particularly good.

For many people in the wine industry 2020 was a vintage to forget with the smoke that rolled into Oregon in early September. I was out walking the vineyards in early September and some spots looked like you were walking on Mars. However, this is a vintage to not totally overlook. Dan Diephouse of Corollary described 2020 as “scary.” He noted “We called off all our picks at one point because of the smoke. We were afraid that when we could return to pick them, they would be overripe. But, the smoke cover essentially stopped development, so when we resumed picking, things were on point. While we were afraid of smoke taint, we had a number of advantages: earlier pick dates, higher elevations, and lighter pressing. This added up to clean, beautiful wines that we're really proud of.”

I was amazed what Corollary was able to produce in 2020. Some of the other Willamette Valley sparkling wines made from 2020 came up clean without smoke impact.

2021 brought another warm vintage which was somewhat akin to 2018, albeit slightly less major diurnal shifts during the hot growing season. While this was a generous, plush vintage and very consistent for still wines, there are some really outstanding bubbles made from this year. 2022 mirrored 2019 a but more and was quite divergent from ’21.

Kate Payne Browne, winemaker at Argyle, also sees 2021 and 2022 as really diverse vintages.  She explained “2021 and 2022 gave us two completely different paths to the same place. 2021 was shaped by a warmer growing season, we picked early and leaned on acid retention to keep those base wines bright for tirage. It was a vintage that rewarded decisiveness. 2022 was different and marked by a much colder and later harvest which led to bright acidity and energetically taut base wines. 2022 was the vintage of patience and hope.  Side by side, they're a good reminder that sparkling wine in the Willamette Valley isn't about chasing a house style every year, it's about reading the vintage and making sure the wine still tastes like where it's from.”

I see 2022 sparkling wines mirroring what was produced with 2019, both showing dazzling tension in some cases. Diephouse described 2022 as not an easy year and “bit of a roller coaster.” He explained “we had an early bud break, the freeze, not being sure if we were going to get any Chardonnay... Because of the late start, we had a really late harvest, with picking beginning in late September for sparkling. I think at first we were a little unsure about the wines, but the vintage really surprised us. The long growing season resulted in great flavor development. The wines are very balanced, with this beautiful savory, saline quality to them that we really enjoy.”

Overall, I think you are going to be really impressed with the quality of the wines made by Method Oregon producers. These are wines with serious intension and very high overall quality. Here are my reviews of my inaugural Method Oregon Report.

AMBAR

2022 Ambar ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- Only 70 cases were made of the delicious 2022 Ambar ‘Blanc de Blancs’ which was sourced from Carter's Block and Maple Block at their estate vineyard. Lemon rind dusted sourdough bread and gooseberry notes combine on the palate with serious weight and salty minerality. The length and soft mousse is outstanding here. Drink 2026-2036- 93

APPROACHMENT

2023 Approachment Pinot Meunier Sparkling Wine- Just recently disgorged in summer 2026, the 2023 Approachment Pinot Meunier Sparkling Wine offers pear and baking spices on the nose with shades of cloves and sourdough bread. The palate is rich, viscous and vibrant with serious tension and mouth-watering acidity. Drink 2026-2033- 92

ARABILIS

2020 Arabilis ‘Sequence’ Sparkling Wine- The 2020 ‘Sequence’ spent a whopping 60 months en tirage before disgorgement in March 2026. It is a blend of 70% Chardonnay with 30% Pinot Noir. This comes off clean despite the obvious challenges of the vintage. Toasted hazelnut flavors combine with shades of papaya, lemon curd and cardamom dusted French bread on the palate. Drinking beautifully now, this is somehow a notch more complex than the ’21! Drink now. Drink 2026-2031- 94

2021 Arabilis ‘Sequence’ Sparkling Wine- The 2021 ‘Sequence’ combines 64% Pinot Noir with the remainder Chardonnay. This was stored on the lees for 48 months before disgorgement in March 2026. Walnut and lemon zest mark the nose alongside salty soils and shades of yellow plum. The palate is big, broad-shouldered and rich with a refined mouthfeel and terrific flavor density. Only 1.5G/L dosage, this is rich and viscous stuff, loaded with citrus oil, that would be an terrific match for sushi. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Arabilis Rose ‘Extra Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2022 Arabilis Rose Sparkling Wine is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier that comes from a range of sites throughout the Willamette Valley. Once on the nose this takes on tart cranberry and Yakima cherry notes alongside shades of orange blossom that all dance in the glass. The palate is refined and mineral-laden, with terrific tension, texture and richness, with wafts of diatom. Drink 2026-2034- 93

ARGYLE

2021 Argyle ‘Spirit Hill Vineyard Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2021 Argyle ‘Spirit Hill Vineyard Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine shows lemon blossom and shades of green melon on the nose with rocky nuances. The palate is refined and viscous with terrific richness and texture as the silky mousse entices. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Argyle ‘Knudsen Vineyard’ Brut Sparkling Wine- The 2022 Argyle ‘Knudsen Vineyard’ Brut Sparkling Wine offers a smooth mouthfeel with loads of tension and salty nuance. Rich melon and mango fruits combine with shades of red raspberry on the palate. Deep and viscous with excellent length, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2014 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine- The 2014 ‘Extended Tirage’ was disgorged in July 2023. Given 3 G/L dosage, this shows off baking spice dusted pastry crust, Pink Lady apple, and juicy peach notes with shades of diatomaceous earth on this luxurious nose. The mousse is super refined and elegant, as this glides throughout the drinking experience. 60% Pinot Noir with the remainder Chardonnay. This is ethereal stuff that is only starting to hit its stride. Drink 2026-2038- 96

BALSALL CREEK

2022 Balsall Creek ‘Sparkling Brut’ Sparkling Wine- A blend of 42% Chardonnay with 31% Pinot Meunier and the remainder Pinot Noir, this is a rich, viscous and delicious effort. Soft on the mouth, this delivers copious minerals that combine with bright pear and starfruit flavors with flinty accents. Drink 2026-2034- 92

BENZA

2022 Benza ‘Brut Cuvee’ Sparkling Wine- Sourced from the Benza Estate Vineyard, this 2022 ‘Brut Cuvee’ offers white peach and juicy Japanese pear notes alongside wet rocks and rich melon notes. The palate is refined and elegant with a silky mousse and marvelous sense of weight and length. Drink 2026-2034- 92

BROOKS

2019 Brooks ‘Extended Tirage’ Riesling- Another spectacular edition of this wine, the truly novel 2019 Brooks ‘Extended Tirage’ Riesling comes from this slightly cooler vintage in the Willamette Valley. Once on the nose this takes on dense honeydew melon and salted Macadamia nut notes alongside shades of lychee. The palate is fresh, viscous and refined with plenty of earthy elegance and a bright salinity that rips through the core of the wine. Seriously good to enjoy right now, savor this beauty over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 95

BRYN MAWR

2018 Bryn Mawr ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2018 Bryn Mawr ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine is delightful and mature now at the seven year mark. White peach and green apple tones combine with salty minerals and wet gravel nuances on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 93

CHEHALEM

2021 Chehalem ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- Disgorged in December 2025, the 2021 ‘Blanc de Blancs’ shows off its vibrant yellow hue. Green apple, white pepper and shades of kumquat zest all combine on the nose. The palate is vibrant with loads of lemon zest and salty minerals. Full-bodied, with serious weight, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 92

2021 Chehalem ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2021 ‘Brut’ is mainly Pinot Noir (84%) and a small amount of dosage (4G/L). Walnut and sandalwood notes combine with toasty brioche and delicate red fruits on the palate. Nicely weighted, with a terrific texture and soft mousse, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

COROLLARY

2021 Corollary ‘Namaste Vineyard Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2021 ‘Namaste Vineyard’ is all Chardonnay from this location in the Van Duzer Corridor. Lemon oil, ripe fig and suggestions of candied ginger all combine on the palate, with diatom nuances. The flinty undertones and loads of freshness really make this shine. Very tension-filled and showing great length, this is quite simply a stunning, very geeky bottling that will appeal to Michelin Star somms across the globe. Drink 2026-2040- 95

2022 Corollary ‘Cuvee One Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 Corollary ‘Cuvee One Brut’ Sparkling Wine was sourced from a range of locations in the Willamette Valley including the Lonesome Rock and X Omni Vineyards. The final blend was a novel combination of 42% Chardonnay, with 38% Pinot Noir and the remainder Pinot Meunier and Pinot Blanc. It is best served on the warmer side to take in the thrilling range of flavors and aromatics. Soft on the mouth, this has intriguing nutty tones from the Pinot Blanc as well as rich melon fruits, with salted kumquat and sourdough bread notes. This is gorgeous stuff that is a steal at 50 bucks SRP. Grab a case while you can. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2022 Corollary ‘Momtazi Vineyard Extra Brut’ Rose Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2022 Corollary ‘Momtazi Vineyard Extra Brut’ Sparkling Wine is shining brightly in its vibrant youth. A killer melange of red and citrus fruits greets you alongside shades of white peach on the palate. Rich and polished, don’t serve too warm! Drink 2026-2036- 94

2022 Corollary ‘Cuvee One Extra Brut’ Rose Sparkling Wine- An amazing, nervy new release, the 2022 ‘Cuvee One’ Rose comes from a range of sites throughout the valley, including 31.25% Twelve Oaks Pinot Meunier (Chehalem Mountains AVA) and 18.75% Lonesome Rock Pinot Noir. Wild mushroom, red raspberry, walnut and hints of cran-pomegranate all combine with salty and rocky soil nuances. Soft and elegant with a silky mousse, enjoy this gorgeous wine now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2033- 94

DOMAINE WILLAMETTE

2022 Domaine Willaette ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 Domaine Willaette ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine spent more than 30 months en tirage prior to disgorgement. It is finesse-laden stuff that is already neatly evolved. Cashew nut flavors collide with honeydew melon and shades of juicy peach on the palate. 100% Pinot Noir and very well-done. Drink 2026-2035- 92

2022 Domaine Willamette ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 ‘Blanc de Blancs’ is all estate Chardonnay that was aged on the lees for 30 months before disgorgement. This is loaded wth astringency and nerve, with rich lemon and Key lime fruits that combine with salted hazelnut and sourdough bread notes, with wafts of ginger. Gorgeous now, enjoy this saline-laden sparkling wine over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2017 Domaine Willamette ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2017 Domaine Willamette ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine is made from estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes that were aged on the lees for seven years. This is a mature, complex sparkling wine that is really peaking right now. Golden in the glass, this shows off heady green melon and kiwi flavors that collide with Japanese pear and cardamom laced pastry crust on the palate. Fabulous now, enjoy over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 94

ELK COVE

2019 Elk Cove ‘Goodrich Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The very mineral-laden 2019 Elk Cove ‘Goodrich Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine comes from the Goodrich Vineyard. All Chardonnay, this delivers bright citrus blossom water and freshly cut limes on the palate alongside sourdough bread notes. This would be a tasty foil for Kusshi oysters. Drink 2026-2036- 92

2019 Elk Cove ‘La Boheme Brut Rose’ Sparkling Wine- The 2019 Elk Cove ‘La Boheme Brut Rose’ Sparkling Wine is vibrant pink in the glass. It comes off loaded with intense red fruits with blood orange zest, cardamom dusted French bread and stony minerals on the palate. The soft mousse and wonderful sense of weight entices from this slightly cooler vintage. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2019 Elk Cove ‘Mount Richmond’ Sparkling Wine- A blend of mainly Pinot Noir, the 2019 ‘Mount Richmond’ is dense and delicious on the mouth. Loaded with pear and baked apple flavors with wild strawberry and starfruit tones, this is rich and viscous stuff, with tons of salty nuance. Enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

ERATH

2022 Earth 'La Lumiere Magique’ Sparkling Wine- All Chardonnay, the 2022 Earth 'La Lumiere Magique’ Sparkling Wine is soft on the mouth with a refined mousse. Juicy starfruit and tangerine rind flavors combine with ginger and sea salt dusted brioche on the palate. Delicious and rich, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

GRAN MORAINE

2018 Gran Moraine ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- Citrus blossom and lychee mark the nose alongside sourdough bread. The palate is polished with a refined mouthfeel and a deep citrus oil core. Drink 2026-2038- 93

NV Gran Moraine ‘Brut Rose’ Sparkling Wine- Disgorged in March 2025, the NV Gran Moraine Brut Rose is mainly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with a dash of Pinot Meunier. It is refined and sleek on the mouth with a smooth mousse. Delicate cranberry and salmonberry fruits collide with copious minerals and sourdough bread accents on the palate. Showing excellent length, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

ITERUM

2020 Iterum ‘Blanc de Blancs Orchard House Estate’ Sparkling Wine- Golden in the glass, the 2020 Iterum ‘Blanc de Blancs Orchard House Estate’ Sparkling Wine comes off clean on the palate. Shades of toasted hazelnut, papaya and Japanese pear nuances all collide with sea salt dusted citrus rind on the palate. Drink 2026-2031- 92

2021 Iterum ‘Orchard House Estate’ Rose Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2021 Iterum ‘Orchard House Estate’ Rose Sparkling Wine spent over four years on the lees before being disgorged in June 2026. Damp earth and wild mushroom combine with guava and citrus zest tones on the nose. This is elegant and refined with a dense mouthful and silky mousse. Drink 2026-2036- 93

KING ESTATE

2021 King Estate ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2021 ‘Brut’ stands golden in the glass, offering marzipan and ginger aromatics that combine with shades of papaya and nutty nuances. The palate is deep and concentrated with serious melon, tropical and melon fruit flavors that mingle well with pine nuts and copious minerals. Drink 2026-2036- 93

LUNDEEN

2022 Lundeen ‘Brut Rose’ Sparkling Wine- All Pinot Noir, the 2022 ‘Brut Rose’ is a really excellent wine that shows off its silky mousse and salty minerality. Delicate red fruits combine with Satsuma orange zest and bergamot accents on the palate. The earthy undertones entice, as this is best consumed now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 92

2021 Lundeen ‘Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut’ Sparkling Wine- Coming from this warmer vintage the 2021 Lundeen ‘Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut’ Sparkling Wine is big, round and generous on the mouth, with terrific texture and weight. Sea salt dusted citrus fruits combine with sourdough bread and yeasty accents on the palate.Tasted several times with consistent notes. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2018 Lundeen ‘Blanc de Noirs La Cantera Vineyard’ Sparkling Wine- All coming from this location in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, the 2018 Lundeen ‘Blanc de Noirs La Cantera Vineyard’ Sparkling Wine is a delicious, mature bottling that is great to consume now. Orange blossom and white peach alongside ginger notes and brioche all fill the nose. The palate is filled with weight and tension, alongside rocky nuances. Drink 2026-2033- 93

LYTLE-BARNETT

2019 Lytle-Barnett ‘Brut Rose Saignee’ Sparkling Wine- Pale in the glass, the 2019 Lytle-Barnett ‘Brut Rose Saignee’ Sparkling Wine is a beautiful effort from this cooler vintage. It is fresh, laden with minerality, and salty tension on the mouth. Delicate red fruits line the palate alongside kumquat zest and suggestions of diatom. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2020 Lytle-Barnett ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine- A really good wine from a tough vintage, the 2020 ‘Blanc de Noirs’ comes from the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. It is round and generous on the tongue with mineral-driven melon, Yakima cherry and citrus fruits that parade with baking spice dusted French bread on the palate. Ripe and fleshy, enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2030- 91

2020 Lytle-Barnett ‘Le Melangeur’ Pinot Meunier A unique 2020 Oregon sparkling wine made only from Pinot Meunier grapes, the Le Mélangeur was stored on the lees for three years before disgorgement. This comes off clean despite the obvious challenges of the vintage. Cardamom laced peach and shortbread notes combine with salty minerals and juicy strawberry on the palate. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2030- 93

2014 Lytle-Barnett ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine- A delicious, mature bottling, the 2014 ‘Extended Tirage’ opens with honey and baked apple notes on the nose alongside pie crust accents. The plate is rich, round and dense on the tongue with a refined mousse and good sense of length. This is drinking at peak right now. Drink 2026-2032- 94

NYSA

2019 Nysa Vineyard ‘Blanc de Noir’ Sparkling Wine- Sourced from Dundee Hills Pinot Noir grapes, this 2019 opens with red raspberry and Bing cherry notes on the nose with beautiful orange blossom notes. The palate is loaded with tension and freshness with oyster shell nuances alongside bright melon and delicate red fruits. Drink 2026-2032- 92

PASHEY

2022 Pashey ‘Estates Cuvee Extra Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 ‘Estates Cuvee Extra Brut’ combines mainly Pinot Noir (72%) with the remainder equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Given 3.0G/L dosage, this shows off baked apple and pear notes alongside suggestions of marzipan on the palate. The smooth mousse really entices, as this is best savored now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Pashey ‘Ribbon Ridge Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- All Chardonnay from their Ribbon Ridge Estate, the 2022 Pashey ‘Ribbon Ridge Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine delivers citrus blossom and cloves on the nose with suggestions of sourdough bread. The palate is mineral-laden and lush with great volume and length. Finishing long, this is going to be a seamless match for fresh oysters. Only 1.0G/L dosage. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Pashey ‘Coast Range Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 Pashey ‘Coast Range Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine comes from this windswept Yamhill-Carlton AVA outpost. On the nose this takes on freshly cut limes, diatom and shades of yellow plum. The palate is refined and elegant, as this sleek wine is loaded with salty tension. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Pashey ‘Brut Rose’ Sparkling Wine- Made from 50% Pinot Noir with equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, this highly nuanced and subtle 2022 Rose sparkling wine was given 3.0G/L dosage and then disgorged in Summer 2025. It has evolved nicely in the bottle, as this comes off beautifully-weighted and also very nervy on the palate, with delicate guava, cranberry and Mandarin orange flavors that combine with hazelnut and damp earthy notes. Juicy and delicious, with excellent length, enjoy this highly refined Rose bottling now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Pashey Pinot Meunier- An awesome edition of this varietal, the highly novel 2022 Pashey Pinot Meunier was disgorged in summer 2025, as only 65 cases were made. It comes off fat and refined on the tongue as this silky mousse really entices. Lemon curd, kumquat zest and shades of salted French bread all combine with hints of ginger on the palate. The volume and intensity of the wine really drives this, alongside faint diatom noes. Drink 2026-2036- 93

SOTER

MV Soter ‘Estates Brut Reserve 1st edition’ Sparkling Wine- The MV Soter ‘Estates Brut Reserve 1st edition’ Sparkling Wine has some reserve wines from 2011 as well as 2012 and 2013 blended in. This is a big and dense edition of this wine, showing loads of orchard fruits alongside lemon rind and suggestions of pastry crust on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 94

MV Soter ‘Estates Brut Reserve 4th edition’ Sparkling Wine- This has a 202i0 vintage base, as well as reserve wines. This has a silky mousse, offering Meyer lemon rind and suggestions of white peach alongside salty nuances on the palate. Refined and elegant, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2035- 94

2017 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Blanc de Blancs’ Sparking Wine- The 2017 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Blanc de Blancs’ Sparking Wine is rich and layered, showing great kumquat and lemon rind flavors with salty/nutty nuance alongside green apple flavors. Elegant and smooth throughout the drinking experience, this is drinking marvelously now. Drink 2026-2035- 95

2016 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Blanc de Noirs Micha’ Sparkling Wine- A totally dazzling wine that is amongst the finest you will taste in Oregon, the 2016 ‘Micha’ is a tribute wine to Oregon wine pioneer Michelle Soter. A mesmerizing wine, this sat on the less for eight years prior to disgorgement in February 2025. This is weightless and smooth throughout the drinking experience, with serious texture and yeasty character from the less exposure. Toasted walnut combines with orange zest and dense melon fruits. Drink 2026-2038- 97

2021 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Brut Rose- A crazy good new sparkling wine, the 2021 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Brut Rose is lush and rich on the mouth with a silky mousse. This is loaded with minerality, yet is silky on the mid-palate. Mandarin orange zest and shades of cranberry with Yakima cherry all combine on the palate. Very complex and delicious, with a bright sense of tension and salinity, this is a marvelous effort that has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2026-2038- 95

ST. INNOCENT

2021 St. Innocent ‘Crement’ Rose Sparkling Wine- Composed from mostly Pinot Blanc (89%) grapes, this was stored on the lees for 39 months prior to disgorgement in late 2025. This has a vibrant pink hue, offering nutty aromatics on the nose alongside suggestions of red raspberry and Bing cherry. The palate shows loads of mouth-watering acidity with a terrific melange of Satsuma orange zest, green melon and tart red fruits. Drink 2026-2036- 92

2021 St. Innocent ‘Cremant d’Innocent’ Sparkling Wine- Another sensational edition of this bottling, the 2021 St. Innocent ‘Cremant d’Innocent’ Sparkling Wine was made from all Pinot Blanc grapes grown at the Freedom Hill Vineyard. It is lush and mineral laden on the tongue, with a vibrant astringency. Salted walnut and Yakima cherry fruit flavors combine with dense melon notes on the palate. The soft mousse entices as this is best served slightly warmer. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2021 St. Innocent ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2021 ‘Blanc de Blancs’ comes from the famed Temperance Hill Vineyard and was stored on the lees for four years prior to disgorgement in December 2025. This is fresh, energetic and vibrant sparkling wine with sourdough bread flavors that meld well with cantalope and shades of beeswax with lemon oil notes. Fresh with a smooth mousse, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

STOLLER

2020 Stoller ‘Larue’s Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2020 Stoller ‘Larue’s Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine comes from the Dundee Hills and was given 5G/L dosage. Green melon and citrus blossom all mark the nose alongside shades of ginger. The palate is rich and viscous with terrific flavor density and tension. Really good now, with its refined mousse and length, watch this evolve over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2021 Stoller ‘Larue’s Rose’ Sparkling Wine- Also coming from the Dundee Hills, the 2021 Stoller ‘Larue’s Rose’ Sparkling Wine comes from high elevation sites at their estate. Mainly Pinot Noir (65%) this was given 4G/L dosage. Wild mushroom and peat moss tones combine with delicate red fruits on the nose. The palate is dense, viscous and silky on the mouth. A stunning wine that is one of the greats of its kind out of Oregon, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 95

WINTER’S HILL

2021 Winter’s Hill ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- This 2021 ‘Brut’ saw extended less aging. It is ripe and rich on the mouth with a great combination of citrus and melon fruit flavors alongside stony minerals. Drink 2026-2032- 92

WILLAKENZIE ESTATE

NV WillaKenzie Estate Éclatant Brut - Mostly Pinot Noir (57%) this offers loads of citrus oil and melon tones with raspberry alongside a silky mousse. Refined and elegant, enjoy over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Koehler Family Wines

It is my pleasure to share the great wines of Koehler.. Derek Koehler grew up on the estate and spent a semester in France studying international practices within the wine industry. Today he is in charge of the operations of the family winery. I have been really impressed with these wines.

Wines are made by Trace Brueske and were seriously good across the board. I love the new 2025 Koehler Rose (OB, 91) which is pretty and neatly textured.. Learn more about this outstanding house at https://www.koehlerwinery.com and here are my reviews of the new wines by Koehler Family Wines.

2025 Koehler ‘Magia Bianca’ White Wine- A blend of 50% Chardonnay with the remainder Viognier and Grenahe Blanc, this offers nutty notes on the nose with salted peach and sourdough bread notes. The palate is wonderfully salty with a smooth mouthfeel. Drink 2026-2031- 92

2025 Koehler ‘Kick On Ranch’ Riesling- The 2025 ‘Kick On Ranch’ Riesling is bone-dry and shows really smooth texture. Green apple and pear notes combine with starfruit and light petrol  accents on the palate. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2025 Koehler ‘Santa Barbara County’ Rose- The 2025 ‘Santa Barbara County’ Rose shows orange blossom and strawberry notes on the nose with shades of French bread. The palate is fresh and polished with a smooth mouthfeel, as delicate red fruits line its core. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2025 Koehler ‘Alisos Canyon’ Gamay Noir- The 2025 Koehler ‘Alisos Canyon’ Gamay Noir is soft on the approach. Bright pomegranate seed and wild strawberry flavors combine with Mandarin orange zest on the palate. Really well-done, enjoy now and over the next six plus years. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Koehler ‘Drum Canyon’ Pinot Noir- Red raspberry and dried herbs mark the nose alongside beautiful red florals in this 2024 Pinot Noir. The palate is fresh and nicely textured, with loads of bright red and dark fruits. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2023 Koehler ‘Santa Ynez Valley’ Merlot- The 2023 Koehler ‘Santa Ynez Valley’ Merlot offers plum and soy sauce on the nose with black currant accents. The palate is soft and elegant with a smooth texture and medium-bodied core of dark fruits wth Arabica bean notes. Drink 2026-2034- 91

2025 Koehler ‘Rancho Rojo’ Red Wine- A blend of Cinsault and Mourvèdre from the Santa Ynez Valley, the 2025 ‘Ranch Rojo’ offers a soft mouthfeel with juicy red fruits and orange peel accents. Drink 2026-2031- 90

2023 Koehler ‘Alison Canyon’ Mourvedre- Coming from the Nolan Ranch, this 2025 Mourvèdre is smooth and rich on the mouth. Plump red and dark fruits collide with shades of black licorice and red licorice notes, with lighter dried herbal accents. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2023 Koehler ‘Nolan Ranch Vineyard’ Petite Sirah- Inky in the glass, the 2023 Koehler ‘Nolan Ranch Vineyard’ Petite Sirah shows juicy blue fruits on the palate with refined tannins and rich dark chocolate notes. Showing stony minerals, with its graphite edge, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

L'Ecole No. 41

It is my pleasure to share the great wines of L’Ecole No. 41 which is one of Walla Walla’s oldest wineries. This was one of the first wineries I tasted at more than 25 years ago. While the perform exceedingly well at the entry level, their higher end wines continue to soar and have been particularly impressive over the past seven years. They are sourcing from one of the most electric sites in the entire Pacific Northwest, the ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ which is sent on fractured basalt soils. Wines from this site are unlike anything else in the Northwest.

I am so impressed with the latest set of new wines. I adored the 2023  L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ Red Wine (OB, 98) which has insanely good terroir and shows sensational aging potential. Learn more about this outstanding winery at http://lecole.com/ Here are the great new wines by L’Ecole No. 41.

2025 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Luminesce’ White Wine- The outstanding 2025 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Luminesce’ White Wine combines 60% Semilon with the remainder Sauvignon Blanc from the Seven Hills Vineyard. On the nose this takes on toasted brioche with banana notes alongside Macadamia nut and green papaya notes. The palate is wonderfully salty with a smooth mouthfeel and good sense of poise. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah is entirely sourced from the Seven Hills Vineyard, set on Loess soils. Inky in the glass, this offers bulls blood and iodine notes on the nose alongside wafts of black peppercorns and dense dark fruits. The palate is dense and decadent, with terrific structure and flavor density. Seriously good now, this will easily cellar for another decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Perigee’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Perigee’ mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (50%) 21% Merlot and smaller amounts Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. This was sourced from older plantings at the Seven Hills Vineyard. On the nose this shows off gorgeous red florals that combine with fresh sage, creme de cassis and exotic spice notes. The palate is rich and viscous with terrific tension and salty nuances. While glorious in its heady youth, this has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2026-2044- 96

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Apogee’ Red Wine- The wow-factor 2023 ‘Apogee’ comes from the acclaimed Pepper Bridge Vineyard which is one of the oldest vineyards in Walla Walla. This edition is nearly identical to the ’22, made of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (65%) with 25% Merlot and smaller parts Malbec and Cabernet Franc.   Like any release of the ‘Apogee’ its nervy edge really requires an hour in the decanter before enjoying. It is elegant and bright wine with a fabulous acid backbone. Despite the heat of the vintage, the tension offered here is really impressive. This is loaded with stony and salty minerals on the palate, with a lush core of red and dark fruits that parade with chocolate pie, dark currants and pipe tobacco. Seriously good, this beauty has each varietal singing in clockwork unison. While gorgeous in its youth, this will easily go for another fifteen years. Drink 2026-2044- 96

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Coming from several locations in the Walla Walla Valley, the  L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon was stored in mainly neutral oak for 22 months prior to bottling. Lush and round on the mouth, this shows well-defined tannins that frame a gorgeous core of blackberry and boysenberry fruits alongside milk chocolate and Arabica bean accents. Medium to full-bodied, with terrific depth and power, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Merlot- The 2023 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Merlot comes in equal parts from the Ferguson and Seven Hills Vineyards. Mocha, tar and black licorice all mark the nose with shades of black rose petals. The palate is concentrated and deep with refined tannins and a gorgeous core of black fruits, with a graphite edge. This is really just an infant so give it plenty of air if enjoying now. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley Ferguson and Seven Hills Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A different blend than the 2023 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ as this wine was equal parts sourced from the Seven Hills and Ferguson Vineyards. It is a standout wine for its impeccable balance and rocky soil nuance. Smooth on the palate, with its refined mouthfeel, this is loaded with tension and stony soils that frame a core of deep dark fruits with espressos ground flavors. Full-bodied and rich, this beauty needs at least an hour of air if consuming now. Drink 2026-2043- 95

2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ Red Wine- A glorious wine from this warm vintage, the 2023 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ Red Wine has 21% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, 9% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot blended in. Stored in roughly 40% new French oak for 22 months, this delivers great rocky soil character on the nose alongside purple rose petals, Chinese black tea and suggestions of black currant cordial. The palate is deep, rich and viscous with tremendous verve, weight and length. It is seamless throughout the drinking experience, as refined tannins frame a gorgeous array of black and blue fruits. A total stunner, with serious mouth-watering acidity and rocky soil character, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2026-2046- 98

Cayuse Vineyards 'Bionic Froggette' Grenache

The Bionic Frog has found its soulmate. The iconic Bionic Frog has now found his person — Bionic Froggette. This inaugural release of the ‘Bionic Frogette’ comes from Christophe Baron’s cobblestone-laden vineyards outside the town of Milton-Freewater. It is an extremely limited edition wine that is dense, dark and decadent Grenache. It is quite different than the famed God Only Knows.

The wine is extremely mineral-laden and concentrated. It is a flat out fabulous bottling that is unforgettable and totally different than anything you will taste in the Pacific Northwest. Learn more at https://cayusevineyards.com/static/ and here is my review of the inaugural vintage of the ‘Bionic Froggette’ Grenache.

2024 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Bionic Froggette’ Grenache- A brand new wine from Cayuse Vineyards, the inaugural 2024 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Bionic Froggette’ Grenache is a stunning bottling from the stony terroir of Milton-Freewater. Extremely dark in the glass, this comes off wonderfully stony on the nose offering soy sauce and Umami notes alongside Nori, Parma ham and suggestions of green peppercorns. The oak treatment here beautifully caresses the deep combination of red and dark fruits, as this exudes class with its kaleidoscope of non-fruit flavors. The palate is intense and nervy with a seamless texture and marvelous combination of weight and verve. There is quite simply nothing like this in the world. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 100

Abloom

One of the outstanding Rose wines made from Napa, Abloom is a 100% Grenache Rose project by three famed female winemakers:Molly Hill, Ashley Hepworth and Sally Johnson Blum. The wine is inspired by the great Grenache based rose wines of Provence and comes from a high elevation site atop the Napa Valley.

The wine is made in a very textural style, offering a very Domaine Tempier v Napa feel. It is pretty and complex wine that is gonna be astoundingly good at the Thanksgiving table or any Tuesday night. The 2025 Abloom (OB, 93) is a standout wine that is drinking marvelously right now. Filled with verve and texture, this beauty shows off the pretty character of Grenache. Learn more at https://www.abloomwine.com/ and her is my review of the inaugural release of Abloom Rose.

2025 Abloom Rose- The 2025 Abloom Rose is composed of all Grenache from the Paras Vineyard, set on Mount Veeder. Made by three female winemakers, Molly Hill, Ashley Hepworth and Sally Johnson Blum this comes off ripe and fat on the mouth. A gorgeous core of bright guava and cran-pomegrante fruits greet you on the [alate alongside shades of kumquat zest and wet stony accents. Dense and delicious, this is already drinking beautifully now. Enjoy this beauty over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

Gainey

Today we share the wines of Dan and Diane Gainey. Their family winery is located in the Santa Ynez Valley and the story began when Dan’s grandfather and father, Dan J. Gainey, acquired 1,800 acres of undeveloped land. Named the ‘Home Ranch’ they ran cattle and horses while growing 600 acres of fruit, vegetables, flowers and hay. In 1984, Dan’s father converted 50 acres to grapevines and Gainey Vineyard was born.

Now in its fourth generation, Gainey wines have been producing some outstanding new releases. I love the 2024 Evan’s Ranch ‘Caitlin’s’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is viscous and delicious with excellent salty tones.. Learn more about this great Santa Barbara County house at https://gaineyvineyard.com and here are my reviews of the new wines by Gainey

2024 Gainey Sauvignon Blanc- Th 2024 Sauvignon Blanc delivers citrus blossom, peach and lychee on the nose. The palate is neatly-textured with excellent viscosity and underlying verve. The salty minerality of the wine is really great as this is best enjoyed on the slightly warmer side to take in the beautiful texture. Drink 2026-2031- 92

2025 Gainey ‘Limited Selection’ Sauvignon Gris- This 2025 Sauvignon Gris has 15% Sauvignon Blanc blended in. Sourced from the Gainey Home Ranch, this delivers dense melon and green papaya notes on the palate, with hints of fig and Pink Lady apple. Nicely-textured, enjoy now and over the next six plus years. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Gainey Chardonnay- Mainly sourced from the Esperanza Vineyard, the 2024 Chardonnay is rich and dense on the tongue with a refined mouthfeel. Loads of melon and tropical fruits parade with sea salt dusted mixed nuts on the palate. Really good, enjoy now and over the next six years. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Evan’s Ranch ‘Caitlin’s’ Chardonnay- The 2024 ‘Caitlin’s’ Chardonnay comes form this site which was bought by Gainey in 1997. Golden in the glass, this is very smooth throughout the drinking experience. Wet rock, nectarine skin, papaya and shades of Meyer lemon zest all parade on the palate, with salty and sandy nuances. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Evan’s Ranch ‘Lone Oak’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Lone Oak’ Pinot Noir utilizes clone 114 and 2A from their estate vineyard. Red currants and red rose petals fill the nose alongside hints of wintergreen. The palate is well-balanced and elegant with a smooth mouthfeel and loads of texture. This is drinking beautifully right now. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Gainey Syrah- Coming from the Santa Rita Hills AVA, the 2024 Gainey Syrah opens with a great bouquet of cardamom, black cherry compote and suggestions of rosemary. The palate is lush with good tension and richness. Drink 2026-2032- 91

2023 Evan’s Ranch ‘Lone Oak’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Lone Oak’ Syrah comes off salty and savory. Black plum and Hoisin sauce combine with creosote notes and fresh herbs on the palate. Concentrated and delicious, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Evan’s Ranch ‘Las Brisas’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Las Brias’ Syrah combines four clonal selections. This offers rich black and blue fruits on the palate, with a reined mouthfeel and great salt/stony accents. Medium to full-bodied, with a scorched earthy edge, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Gainey Merlot- The 2023 Gainey Merlot is soft and approachable on the mouth. Salty minerals combine with bright black fruits, tobacco leaf and stony accents on the palate. Showing a great combination of texture and freshness, enjoy this outstanding wine now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2023 Gainey Cabernet Franc- This 2023 Cabernet Franc from the Santa Rita Hills is an outstanding bottling that is both viscous and mineral-laden. This shows serious balance between richness and tension, as salty minerals combine with bright red and dark fruits, with hints of chocolate cake and wafts of green herbs. This is a seriously good wine. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Gainey ‘Ines’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Ines’ is a blend of near equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with 23% Cabernet Franc all sourced from the Patrick’s Vineyard. This is a deep, concentrated and well-structured wine with stony minerals that combine with dense dark fruits, sweet pipe tobacco and salted molten chocolate. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2023 Gainey ‘Patrick’s Vineyard Selection’ Red Wine- The 2023 Gainey ‘Patrick’s Vineyard Selection’ Red Wine is nearly all Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) from their estate vineyard. Powerful and concentrated, this has a dusting of white pepper alongside heady boysenberry and black cherry fruits. With more air there are cigar box, anise and cassis nuances that combine with the rich mouthfeel on the palate. Sensational now, watch this evolve now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2039- 94