Washington Wine Blog Top 100 Wines of 2016

Dear Friends,

I wanted to offer my warmest holiday greetings from Washington Wine Blog. I hope you all are enjoying a wonderful holiday season. 2016 has been a very exciting year here at Washington Wine Blog. I want to wish you all of my deepest thanks for supporting the blog. A lot has happened for me professionally this year. This is my second year the associate editor at International Wine Report, reviewing wines for them primarily from Washington, Oregon and California. This year Washington Wine Blog has two new associate editors, Dr. Stephen Lee and Dr. Jae Hong, who both review Washington red wines. They both add experience and depth to the blog. This year I’ve had the chance to sample some absolutely incredible domestic wines and interview many people behind those wines.  Washington Wine Blog now has amassed over 70 interviews, and that will continue to expand in the new year.

This year I have chosen 100 exceptional domestic wines to comprise my Top 100 for 2016. This year I’ve attended many wines events and have visited more tasting rooms than ever. Value wines are considered in my Top 100, and there are several incredible well-priced selections that I simply could not leave out. The wines from Washington continue to impress and rise to the top of the list. I have chosen my 2016 Washington Wine Blog Wine of the Year as the 2012 Cayuse ‘God Only Knows’ Grenche (WWB, 99), a wine that flirts with perfection and is made by the esteemed Vigneron Christophe Baron. Christophe creates an exotic, stony wine here that shows unparalleled range and poise. I highly recommend that you try a bottle of this special wine. Congrats to Christophe Baron and Elizabeth Bourcier for creating this absolute heavyhitter of a wine. Thank you again for your support of Washington Wine Blog. I want to wish you all the absolute best during this holiday season and I hope 2017 brings you all great joy, and beautiful wines in your glass.

1)     2012 Cayuse ‘God Only Knows Armada Vineyard’ Grenache ($85.00)- The 2012 Cayuse 'God Only Knows' Grenache is an ethereal wine by this estate. This incredible wine has a classic Walla Walla stony nose. There are deep aromatics of sage, rose petals, crushed wet rock, lavender, red cherry, red raspberry and blood orange. The range of flavors at play is tremendous. In the glass there are slow developing enticing flavors of red raspberry, Umami, Shitake mushroom, crushed wet rock, boysenberry, pomegranate seed and crushed white wildflowers. This Grenache becomes even richer and aromatically present following a two hour decant. The minute long finish is astonishing, while the structure of the wine makes it nearly impossible to resist. Simply put, this is nothing short of a scintillating release by Christophe Baron that shows incredible tension, minerality and richness in this near perfect vintage. Drink 2016-2030- 99

2)     2013 Quilceda Creek 'Columbia Valley' Cabernet Sauvignon ($120.00)- Following up the highly impressive 2012 Cabernet, the 2013 Cabernet was sourced from the Champoux Vineyard (95%) as well as the Wallula Vineyard (5%).  Needing more than a two hour decant at this point to fully sing, the Cabernet opens with exotic aromatics of Turkish coffee, creme de cassis, anise, red bell pepper and violets. The wine has ultra-rich flavors of anise, creme de cassis, red bell pepper, graphite and blackberry cobbler while maintaining a vibrant minerality. The texture of this wine is ethereal. Despite a long decant there are still some mild to moderate tannins, that complement the velvety mouthfeel. This combination of viscosity and tension is without an equal in Washington Cabernet. There is a seamless quality to this wine that reminds me of the epic 2005 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet bottling. The intoxicating aromatics of this wine bring you continually back to the glass for more. Try to resist this beautiful wine for at least two more years. Drink 2018-2040- 98

3)     2013 Opus One Red Wine ($200.00)- An absolute stunner, the new release wine by Opus One is one for the cellar. Showing a darker, more heated black fruit profile from this hot vintage, the 2013 Opus One is one to contemplate, as there are some many working parts to this compelling wine. This red blend has intense aromatics of sandalwood, creme de cassis, mocha, black cherry, blackberry compote and black plum. The mouthfeel is voluptuous and intense as this displays a slightly higher viscosity than the 2012 Opus One. There are deep and penetrating flavors of black cherry, anise, creme de cassis, blackberry cobbler, sage and anise. Not for the weary, try to resist this hedonistic wine for at least another year. Drink 2017-2035- 99

4)     2013 Horsepower 'Sur Echalas Vineyard' Syrah ($100.00)- Following up the incredible 2012 release, the 2013 Horsepower 'Sur Echalas Vineyard' Syrah is every bit as deep, stony and downright delicious than the 2012 edition. Similar to the other Horsepower bottlings, the wine needs more than a one hour decant to fully expose its incredible range of aromas and flavors. After time the decanter, the translucent Syrah wine opens with an aromatic profile of seaweed, Umami, orange blossom, black truffle crudo, horse manure, black cherry cola, wild blackberry preserves and suggestions of baking spices. Similar to the other new release Horsepower wines, these aromatics from the Sur Echalas Vineyard are so invigorating and hedonistic that you are continually brought back to the glass just to indulge this cornucopia of aromatics at play. The Syrah has deep flavors of black cherry, wet stone, black raspberry, black truffle, Satsuma orange, pomegranate seed and suggestions of boysenberry pie. Possessing a gorgeous texture, the minerality of this wine glides along the mid-palate, leading to an exceedingly long finish. Drink 2016-2028- 98

5)     2013 Reynvaan Family Vineyards ‘In The Rocks’ Syrah - ($65.00)- This wine was co-fermented with 5% Viognier. This wine saw 25% new French oak for 18 months prior to bottling. The Syrah wine opens with dense aromatics of bacon fat, seaweed, creosote, and tangerine rind. There are flavors of wild blackberry, cranberry, tangerine rind, seaweed and smoked pork shoulder. This incredible wine glides through the palate. The elegance of this wine is there as it takes on some Burgundian characteristics. Try to cellar this hard to resist wine for at least another year. Drink 2017-2028- 96

6)     2013 Sanguis ‘John Sebastiano Vineyard Loner R13-a’ Pinot Noir ($70.00) - This Santa Rita Hills bottling needs more than two hours in the decanter to open up. Once aroused it begins with aromatics of cherry cola, red raspberry preserves, lavender and nutmeg. There is a viscous and velvety texture to this scintillating wine. Flavors of cherry pie, cherry cough syrup, cola and red raspberry persist. An absolutely seamless wine, with brightness and decadence. Drink 2016-2026- 95

7)     2013 HALL 'Rainin Vineyard' Cabernet Sauvignon-($325.00) The 2013 Rainin Vineyard is sourced from an 8 acre property just off Diamond Mountain road, which is located in a cooler section of a generally warmer district. This Cabernet has intense aromatics of blackberry pie, crème de cassis, black tea, mocha, sagebrush and underlying hints of eucalyptus all coming together beautifully in the glass. There are gorgeous flavors of ripe black cherries, crème de cassis, mocha, anise, mint and graphite which are deeply layered on the palate. The weight and mouthfeel of this wine is hedonistic and ethereal, further adding to its early appeal. Overall, this is an absolutely sensation wine from Hall and I expect this to continue to evolve gracefully for many years to come. Drink 2017-2035- 99

8)     2014 Delmas Syrah ($65.00)- Following up the gorgeous 2013 bottling, the 2014 Delmas Syrah is cut from a similar thread. The new release Delmas wine is a blend of 91.7% Syrah and 8.3% Viognier that was sourced from the esteemed SJR Vineyard. Having visited the SJR Vineyard on several occasions, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible attention to detail that goes into creating this exceptional wine. Proprietor Steve Robertson is constantly in the vineyard, as the highly specialized vineyard management clearly translates to the novel, Walla Walla Rocks expression in the bottle. The Syrah wine is made by superstar winemaker Billo Naravane and sat 14 months in 60% new French oak prior to bottling. The aromatics of this wine are entirely intoxicating as you are constantly drawn back to the glass for more. There is a bouquet of black truffle oil, cran-orange, forest floor, red cherry, Umami and red raspberry. The wine has deep flavors of black cherry, black truffle, cherry pie, Umami, and tamarind. Similar to his Rasa bottlings, you can truly feel Billo Naravane's skill in crafting his signature texture, viscosity and mouthfeel to this wine. The intensity of this wine is tremendous, and while this wine can be cellared for a decade or more, the Rocks District Syrah is absolutely impossible to resist right now. Only 150 cases made of this special Syrah bottling. Drink 2016-2027- 96

9)     2013 Darioush Cabernet Franc ($62.00)- Darioush continues to produce some absolutely irresistible efforts. The 2013 Darioush Cabernet Franc is the best wine in the stunning new lineup of Darioush wines. This incredible Cab Franc was sourced from a high elevation Mount Veeder estate vineyard.  Darioush produces very little of this wine. This stunning example of the varietal follows up the excellent 2012. This Cab Franc begins with aromas of red bell pepper, anise, eucalyptus and dill. There are deep flavors of creme de cassis, mocha, anise, red bell pepper and black olive. This masculine style Cab Franc is a layered and polished effort that will be exceedingly long lived. The wine is pretty tannic at this point, so try to give this slumbering monster at least another year. Drink 2017-2040- 95

10) 2012 Domaine Serene 'Recolte Grand Cru' Chardonnay ($125.00)-This wine begins with aromatics of brioche, hazelnut, Gala apple and suggestions of allspice. This leads to flavors of poached pear, with a huge finish and lingers for more than 40 seconds. The weight and viscosity is there. There is a hugely impressive effort to this true heavyhitter of a Chardonnay. This is gorgeous right now but will continue to build lovely secondary characteristics as this gracefully evolves in the bottle. Drink 2017-2028- 95

11) 2014 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir ($48.00)- The 2014 'Pelos Sandberg Vineyard' Pinot Noir is a stunner from Big Table Farm. This wine begins with intense aromas of barnyard, Shitake mushroom, Umami, white pepper and boysenberry. There are flavors of blood orange, forest floor, black truffle and black cherry. There is tremendous range and balance to this superlative bottling. Drink 2016-2030- 94

12) 2013 La Rata Red Wine ($65.00)- This absolutely incredible bottling follows up the amazing ’12 La Rata Red Wine. The wine is made by Elizabeth Bourcier, Cayuse’s assistant vigneronne, who was first inspired by Clos Erasmus wines and wanted to combine Armada Vineyard Grenache with En Cerise Vineyard Cabernet. The resultant 60% Grenache and 40% Cabernet red blend is a stunner. As the wine slowly develops in the glass, it begins to release dense aromatics of wet stone, red cherry, smoke with red raspberry with rose petal accents. The aromatics are intense and bring you back to the glass for more. There are ripe aromas of cherry cola, wet stone, red raspberry, orange rind and lavender. The wine possesses a gorgeous minerality and balance. The novelty of this wine is apparent as there is really nothing like this in Washington. The texture is voluptuous as this it is impossible to resist this intense wine.  Drink 2016-2028- 95

13) 2013 W.T. Vintners 'Stoney Vine Vineyard' Red Blend ($35.00)- The 2013 Stoney Vine Vineyard' Red Blend is a stunner from W.T. Cellars and head winemaker Jeff Lindsay-Thorsen. The wine is a blend of 53% Grenache, 37% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre and shows the best of the Walla Walla Rocks region. This wine opens with aromas of prune, red cherry, and wet gravel with some smoky accents. There are flavors of red raspberry, crushed wet gravel, blood orange rind and black cherry with suggestions of smoked meats and black olive. This is a silky and textured wine that is impossible to resist right now. The softness of the Grenache shows through. At this price, the wine is an absolute steal. In fact, I have never seen a wine of this quality and price from the Walla Walla Rocks region. This impressive bottling has the structure to cellar for another decade. Drink 2016-2026- 94

14) 2013 Brittan Vineyards 'Gestalt Block' Pinot Noir ($55.00)-This deep colored Pinot has aromas of crushed wet rock, loganberry preserves, black truffle and first floor. There are flavors of wild blackberry, cran-pomegranate, slate, blueberry compote and guava purée as red and dark fruits mingle beautifully. The structure is profound. This is novel and an absolute heavyhitter, up there with the best in Oregon. Drink 2016-2030- 95

15) 2013 Kongsgaard Chardonnay ($100.00)- The 2013 Napa Valley Chardonnay is a striking beauty from Kongsgaard. This spectacular wine opens with inviting aromatics of poached pear, crème brûlée, golden delicious apple and toasted hazelnuts all taking shape beautifully in the glass. On the palate, this leads to rich flavors of poached pear, marzipan, Meyer lemon oil and Gala apple, with suggestions of Shiitake mushroom. This has that dazzling intensity that you can almost feel in the glass leading up to the finish, continues to pull you back in with its seductive flavors. Overall, this is a memorable drinking experience and certainly a one of a kind effort from John Kongsgaard. Drink 2016-2028- 95

16) 2013 Leonetti Cellar ‘Reserve’ Red Wine ($150.00)- The 2013 Leonetti 'Reserve' Red Wine is the most exceptional bottling out of the new impressive Leonetti lineup. The wine is a blend of 81% Cabernet with 11% Petit Verdot and 8% Merlot that sat 22 months in new and French oak prior to bottling. The wine has a massive, deep core and possesses some absolutely intoxicating aromatics. This incredible wine begins with aromas of creme de cassis, anise, dark chocolate and black cherry with black olive. There are deep flavors of black cherry, black olive, black tea, mocha and blueberry pie. The mouthfeel and texture of this gorgeous wine is absolutely exceptional. Moderately tannic at this time, try to give this impossible to resist wine at least two more years in the bottle to fully develop. Kudos to head winemaker Chris Figgins in crafting this scintillating new release wine. Drink 2018-2037- 97

17) 2013 Long Shadows 'Feather' Cabernet Sauvignon ($75.00) - Randy Dunn crafts this 100% Cabernet wine. This is his best effort in 10 years of trying this wine. The Cabernet begins with aromas of red bell pepper, red raspberry and red cherry. There is absolutely amazing richness and depth with mouthwatering acidity which leads to layered flavors of anise, creme de cassis, red bell pepper and a long and persistent finish. This Cab is absolutely decadent and needs a lot of aeration at the moment. Give this one at least another year before enjoying. Drink 2017-2035- 96

18) 2013 Charles Smith ‘Royal City’ Syrah ($100.00)- The 2013 'Royal City' Syrah by Charles Smith is the best wine that I have sampled from this estate. This absolutely awesome Syrah opens with hedonistic aromas of bacon fat, forest floor, Umami, cherry cough syrup and thyme with sagebrush accents. There are bold and intense flavors of black cherry, black olive, smoked pork shoulder, green olive, Marcona almond and Unami. The range of flavor and aromatic profiles is wonderful. The texture and silky mouthfeel of this wine is absolutely outstanding as this glides through the mid-palate. While this wine is not from The Rocks District, it showcases a novel wet stone presence. Drink 2016-2030- 96

19) 2013 Quilceda Creek 'Galitzine Vineyard' Cabernet Sauvignon ($100.00)- This 100% Cabernet wine was primarily sourced from their estate vineyard on Red Mountain, with only 5% coming from the Wallula Vineyard. The Cabernet was aged for 20 months in new French oak prior to bottling in June 2015. Initially aromatically reticent and needing a two plus hour decant, the wine slowly develops with air. After considerable time in the decanter to unwind, the wine unleashes exceedingly dense aromatics of creme de cassis, anise, coffee grounds, red bell pepper, and red cherry. This leads to mouth-watering flavors of red cherry, red bell pepper, creme de cassis and anise with suggestions of mocha and crème de cassis. Somewhat mirroring the Columbia Valley bottling, the texture, fruit weight and intensity of this wine is absolutely superlative. I see this as showcasing a slightly more masculine fruit and aromatic profile than their 2013 Columbia Valley bottling. This wine represents an absolutely gorgeous effort that stands neck and neck with their Columbia Valley bottling and is up there with the best Galitzine Vineyard Cabernet that I've ever sampled in the past ten years. Cellar this impressive bottling for at least two more years. Drink 2018-2040- 97

20) 2013 Gramercy Cellars 'John Lewis Reserve' Syrah ($85.00)- This wine opens with aromatics reminiscent of white pepper, anise, wild blackberry and green bell pepper. There are flavors of creosote, blackberry pie, black olive, pipe tobacco, spice cake and sandalwood and wet gravel that mingle with brisk minerality. The smoothness mid-palate and structure are absolutely gorgeous. Seamless and precise, this 'wow factor' Syrah is one for the cellar. Try to hold off drinking this beauty for one more year. Drink 2017-2028- 95

21) 2013 Rasa ‘Primus Inter Pares Monettes Vineyard’ Grenache ($55.00)- Fermented in second use puncheons, the wine begins with aromas of rose petals, anise, red cherry and red raspberry and wet rock with suggestions of lavender and provencale herbs. This leads to ripe flavors of gravel, red raspberry, red cherry and nice viscosity with a long finish. This is impossible to resist and is up there with the best Grenache in the state. Polished and absolutely delicious. Drink 2016-2028- 95

22) 2014 Illumination Sauvignon Blanc ($50.00)- The 2014 Illumination Sauvignon Blanc impresses from Quintessa and is one of most memorable Napa Sav Blancs that I have sampled in the past year. The wine is a blend of 52% Sauvignon Blanc Musqué, 32% Sauvignon Blanc, and 16% Semillon that was released nearly a year ago. Today this wine is absolutely gorgeously rounded out, The wine begins with aromatics reminiscent of lemongrass, Meyer lemon, Bartlett pear, white peach and Pazzaz apple. There are dense flavors of Granny Smith apple, starfruit, Meyer lemon oil, peach pit and macadamia nut. Perfect for a warm summer day, the wine is balanced, intense and out of this world delicious right now. This is up there with the best in North America. Drink 2016-2026- 95

23) 2014 DeLille Chaleur Estate Blanc ($38.00)- Year after year DeLille crafts one of the best, if not the best, Bordeaux style White out of Washingon State. Composed of 75% Sav Blanc and 25% Semillon. The wine was aged in oak, 70% new for 5-6 months. Beautiful nose of starfruit, lemon rind and baked apple. Rich mouthfeel with vanilla, pear, red delicious apple, starfruit and a 30 second long finish. This is very bit outstanding and up there with the 2008 Chaleur Estate Blanc as the best Chaleur Estate Blancs I’ve ever tried. Drink 2015-2022. -95

24) 2013 Cayuse 'Impulsivo' Tempranillo ($75.00)- One of my favorite wines of this tasting at Cayuse was the gorgeous 2013 'Impulsivo' Tempranillo which is the best of its kind in Washington. The 2013' Impulsivo' is made from Tempranillo that is sourced from the En Chamberlin Vineyard. The wine begins intense with aromas of wet stone, blackberry cobbler, Umami, and red raspberry with forest floor. There are vibrant flavors of blackberry, smoked meats, Umami and crushed gravel with green olive and a saline streak. This has incredible minerality and balance. I can see this heavyhitter of a wine pairing exceptionally well with a range of foods. Drink 2016-2028- 95

25) 2013 Alpha Omega ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay ($95.00)- Alpha Omega have crafted an absolute heavyhitter of a wine here. Even more impressive than their regular Chardonnay bottling, the ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay wine starts with aromatics of roasted hazelnuts, unripe pear, pineapple, and creme brûlée. There are dense flavors of peach pit, mango, golden delicious apple and poached pear. Gorgeous wine here that lingers on the tongue and shows a Chablis like minerality. Balanced, expressive and intense Chardonnay that is best served a little warmer than average, for the full range of fruit to show through. Drink 2016-2026- 95

 26) 2014 Robert Biale 'Varozza Vineyard' Zinfandel ($50.00)- The Varozza family has been farming on this site since 1913. This seamless wine opens with aromatics of black plum, black cherry, prune and blackberry cobbler. There are plush flavors of black cherry, cola, prune, boysenberry preserves, blueberry compote and hints of dark chocolate shavings. The smoothness and silky texture of this wine makes this wine a true heavyhitter. There is almost a Bordelaise character to this exceptional wine. Drink 2016-2027- 95

27) 2012 Epoch 'Authenticity' Red Wine ($65.00)- This gorgeous wine is a blend of 71% Syrah, 28% Mouvedre and 1% Viognier. The wine opens with generous aromatics of star jasmine, anise, creme de cassis, and Turkish coffee. There are dense flavors of milk chocolate, creme de cassis, roasted figs, and tar. The wine has a seamless quality despite its fruit weight which is profound. The texture is absolutely gorgeous and bordering ethereal. Drink 2016-2030- 96

28) 2013 Figgins Red Wine ($85.00)- The 2013 Figgins Estate Red Wine is a proprietary blend that tastes like it has slightly more Cabernet blended in than the other varietals (Petit Verdot and Merlot). Head winemaker Chris Figgins chooses the blending based on what varietal he enjoys the most each year. Sourced from the Figgins Estate vineyard, which is a high elevation vineyard set at 1700 feet, the wine has beautiful aromatics of green olive, dried sage and black cherry with black olive. There are rich and intoxicating flavors of black cherry, creme de cassis, anise, blueberry compote and coffee grounds. The rich and polished mouthfeel is just exceptional. The wine has a bright minerality and a texture that borders ethereal. This to me represents the best Figgins Estate Red Wine that I have sampled. The fruit weight and acidity suggests this will be a very long ager. Drink 2016-2033- 95

29) 2013 Bunnell Family Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon ($28.00)- This delicious and open style Cabernet begins with intense aromas of creme de cassis, anise and blackberry compote. This leads to dense flavors of black olive, black cherry, cassis and blueberry compote. This is absolutely stunning, rich and balanced Cab that will cellar beautifully into the next decade. Drink 2016-2026- 93

30) 2013 Beringer ‘Private Reserve’ Chardonnay ($35.00)- The wine saw 80% new French oak and like many vintages, has a very strong oak influence. This wine begins with aromas of nutmeg, wild mushroom, roasted pineapple, golden delicious apple and whipping cream. The wine has flavors of vanilla cream, poached pear, Pink Lady apple, and heavy whipping cream. there is a seamless quality to this wine. Gorgeous intensity and fruit weight. This is up there with the 2004 and 2007 Private Reserve bottlings and is one of the best I've sampled. With the fruit weight, this has the stuffing to cellar marvelously. Drink 2016-2026- 94

31) 2013 MacRostie 'Wildcat Vineyard' Chardonnay ($40.00)- The high elevation Chardonnay wine opens with aromas of brioche, Shitake mushroom, orange blossom and lemon oil. There are flavors of Gala apple, Bartlett pear, nutmeg and toasted hazelnuts with lemon accents. This expressive wine has with a long and lingering finish. This shows undid or complexity. Drink 2016-2024- 93

32) 2014 Tablas Creek 'Cotes de Tablas' Red Wine ($35.00)- This wine is blended with 44% Grenache, 36% Syrah, 12% Counioise and 8% Mourvèdre. The wine has seductive aromas of rose petals, smoked meats, cassis, and black cherry. There are flavors of black olive, wild blackberry, creme de cassis, ginger, Mandarin orange rind, white pepper and smoked pork shoulder with hints of black truffle oil. Incredible range of flavors and aromatics at play, with a bright minerality. The mouthfeel and texture are outstanding, leading to a long finish. An excellent value at this price point. Drink 2016-2026- 93

33) 2014 Rombauer Vineyards ‘Carneros’ Chardonnay ($36.00)- The 2014 Rombauer 'Carneros' Chardonnay is an excellent new release effort from this estate. This Chardonnay was sourced from Carneros vineyards owned by the Rombauer family and other growers including the Sangiacomo family. The wine was aged 9 months in French and American Oak (33% new) prior to bottling. This wine opens with bright aromas of poached pear, creme brûlée and ripe pineapple. This leads to flavors of Pazzaz apple, Meyer lemon zest with a rich cream finish. Superlative bottling here with a bright minerality. Drink 2016-2022- 93

34) 2012 Rasa ‘Fianchetto’ Red Wine ($95.00)- This is an XL Vineyard Bordeaux blend of Cabernet, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The wine begins stub aromas of mocha, black cherry and anise. This leads to flavors of blackberry jam, coffee grounds, creme de cassis, anise and done in the hugely modern style. The texture of this wine is ethereal. This is intense Cabernet, showing moderate to heavy tannins at this point that settle after three hours of decanting. The purity of fruit is exceptional here. Drink 2018-2031- 96

35) 2010 Chandler Reach ‘Monte Regalo’ Red Wine ($20.00)- Aged 22 months in oak before bottling, the wine is a blend of 68% Cabernet with 20% Cabernet Franc and 12% Merlot. This outstanding wine begins with lovely black fruit aromatics of blackberry preserves, black olive and tar. There are flavors of blackberry, black cherry, black olive tapenade and mocha. Nice structure and fruit flavors to this very solid wine. Drink 2016-2022- 92

36) 2013 Avennia 'Arnaut' Syrah ($50.00) - This amazing Syrah was aged 16 months in 15% new French oak prior to bottling. The wine begins with aromas of white pepper, smoked pork shoulder, wild blackberry and mocha. There are flavors of blackberry pie, mocha, and black cherry with suggestions of roasted dates. Massive, masculine and tannic right now, this will age gracefully for at least another decade. This is every bit as good as the absolutely exceptional 2012. Give this at least an hour decant before enjoying. Drink 2017-2028- 95

37) 2012 Col Solare ‘Component Collection’ Malbec ($75.00)- The 2012 Col Solare 'Component Collection' Malbec is an absolute stunner from this estate. This impressive release wine begins with aromas reminiscent of red bell pepper, sage, dill and red currant alongside mocha. There are deep flavors of black cherry, black olive, mocha and sagebrush. The texture of this wine is top shelf. This is a polished and dense effort from this estate and showcases this impressive vintage. I have not sampled a better Washington Malbec in the past year.  Drink 2016-2025- 94

38) 2012 Beringer ‘Private Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon ($165.00)-This impressive wine starts with aromas of anise, wild blackberry preserves, creme de cassis, and Turkish coffee. There are rich  flavors reminiscent of dill, red bell pepper, anise, creme de cassis and mocha. Lovely depth and intensity to this wine that shows both viscosity and balance. The texture and fruit weight is impeccable. Try to resist this heavyhitter for at least another year. Drink 2017-2040-95

39) 2012 EFESTE ‘Final Final’ Red Wine ($30.00)- This is a lovely blend of Cabernet and Syrah. It begins with rich red cherry, dill and raspberry aromatics. There are deep flavors of red cherry, raspberry, Turkish coffee and lavender. This is wonderfully rich and viscous. Good value wine here. Drink 2016-2022- 92

40) 2014 Orin Swift 'Machete' Red Wine ($35.00)- The 'Machete' by Orin Swift was first produced in 2009. This wine is a compelling blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah and Grenache, this inky hued wine was aged 10 months in French oak (40% new) prior to bottling. Weighing in at a whopping 15.7% alcohol and needing more than an hour to express itself, as it is aromatically reticent at first, the wine gradually yields deep aromas reminiscent of rose petals, tar, pipe tobacco, coffee grounds and blueberry compote. There are rich flavors of black plum, creosote, black olive, and spicebox. This wine is pretty Tannic and intense right now with lovely viscosity and mouthfeel. Despite the highly alcohol content, there is a seamless quality to this impressive release. This dense treat needs another year to fully integrate. It represents another stellar Machete bottling by Orin Swift, following up the highly impressive 2013 bottling. Drink 2017-2025- 93

41) 2013 Long Shadows 'Pedestal' Red Wine ($75.00)- Michel Rolland, Pomerol vintner and consultant to many of the world's top wineries,produces this fantastic Merlot wine. Comprised of 75% Merlot with the remainder Malbec and Petite Verdot, this is the smallest portion of Merlot ever used for the wine. The Merlot has aromas of black cherry, black olive and anise. There are rich and dense flavors of Turkish coffee, anise, black cherry and graphite. Absolutely intense and outstanding effort, with an herbaceous character. These guys are absolutely on top of their game, as this is one to sip and savor. . . in at least a year. Drink 2017-2030- 95

42) 2012 Domaine Serene 'Monogram' Pinot Noir ($275.00)- This absolute heavyhitter of a wine utilizes 75% new oak (aged for 17 months) and is chosen from the winemaker Erik Kramer's finest Pinot Noir barrels. The wine opens with intense aromatics of red cherry, herbs de Provence, red raspberry, black truffle and black pepper. The gorgeous aromatics continue to bring you back to the glass. As the wine slowly evolves in the glass this leads to dense flavors of red cherry, red raspberry, cran-pomegranate and crimini mushroom compote. The Pinot Noir has a minute-long finish. The texture and mouthfeel of this wine borders ethereal. There is a seamless quality to this wine that showcases the fruit and balance of the 2012 vintage. Hats off to Kramer and his winemaking team for creating this incredible new release wine that is the finest that I have sampled from this amazing vintage. Drink 2016-2033- 96

43) 2013 Alpha Omega ‘Beckstoffer Georges III’ Cabernet ($130.00)- This impressive Cabernet wine begins with rich aromatics of blackberry jam, coffee grounds, creme de cassis and anise with eucalyptus. There are layered flavors of creme de cassis, dark chocolate, anise, Turkish coffee and black olive. This Cab shows absolutely gorgeous range, depth and intensify here. The plush mouthfeel shows through. This is impossible to resist right now but will prove to be even better in another year. Drink 2017-2040- 95

44) 2014 Force Majeure ‘Epinette’ Red Wine ($N/A) (Release August 2017). Force Majeure head winemaker Todd Alexander sought to make a right bank Bordeaux style wine from his estate fruit on Red Mountain and has absolutely nailed this 2014 effort which will be released in roughly one year. This impressive wine is a blend of 58% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet and 5% Petit Verdot which was aged 22 months in 80% new French oak. While still in its nascent phase and somewhat aromatically reticent at first, this excellent wine begins with aromatics of creme de cassis, anise, sagebrush, wild blackberry cobbler, sandalwood and mocha. There are deep flavors of anise, creme de cassis, green olive, mocha that sit alongside moderate to major tannins. This has a gorgeous texture and marvelous fruit weight. After two plus hours of decanting this wine comes more alive and massive displaying a deeper, more muscular concentration with incredible viscosity. The range of flavors and aromatics are there, with the dense fruit weight that makes this wine a beautiful comparison to a top right bank Bordeaux. Kudos to Todd Alexander for crafting this excellent Merlot dominant wine, as he has captured the art of blending with this 'Epinette' release. Drink 2017-2030- 95

45) 2012 Los Padres Grenache ($20.00)- This wine also utilizes Central Coast fruit. This has pretty aromas of rose petals, smoked meats and red cherry. It is hard to imagine this level of aromatics in this price point. There are flavors of raspberry, lavender, sagebrush and red cherry. This has a wonderful minerality and is expressive and lithe. Drink 2015-2022- 92

 46) 2013 St. Innocent 'Shea Vineyard' Pinot Noir ($50.00)- This wine begins with aromas of raspberry, black truffle, forest floor and red cherry. This leads to flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, red currant, pomegranate with silly tannins and a velvety mouthfeel. Delicious, with a ton of depth. Drink 2016-2026- 93

47) 2013 Chateau St. Michelle 'Indian Wells' Merlot ($15.00)- This awesome value Merlot has 15% Syrah blended in and starts with aromatics of smoke, blueberry compote, blackberry and coffee grounds. This wine yields flavors of mocha, black olive and wild blackberry. The texture and viscosity of this wine is there. Just a gorgeous value new release wine by Chateau St. Michelle. Drink 2016-2024- 92

48) 2012 Den Hoed 'Marie's View' Red Wine ($80.00)- This wine has a lovely herbaceous nose of red bell pepper, sage, and oak with blackberry accents. Flavors of blackberry, blueberry compote, anise and creme de cassis persist. Absolutely rich and viscous wine that is impossible to resist right now. Drink 2016-2030- 94

49) 2013 DeLille 'Four Flags' Cabernet ($67.00)- The 2013 DeLille Cellars 'Four Flags' Cabernet follows up the highly impressive 2012 bottling. This wine begins with intense aromatics of black tea, Asian spices, dark chocolate and Turkish coffee grounds. The wine has rich flavors of mocha, blackberry cobbler, anise and creme de cassis with suggestions of black olive and creosote. This is memorable wine that will have a long life. Drink 2016-2030- 95

50) 2013 Red Car ‘Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay ($55.00)- Red Car is one of the few wineries that can receive fruit from this outstanding vineyard. The new ‘Ritchie Vineyard’ is an excellent effort from this state. The wine starts with aromatics reminiscent of nutmeg, cloves, Pink Lady apple and hints of mushroom. There are flavors of Meyer lemon oil, Bartlett pear, vanilla cream and pineapple. This possesses some absolutely lovely intensity and viscosity. Drink 2016-2023-93

51) 2013 Woodward Canyon 'Artist Series' Cabernet ($55.00)- It is always hard following up a classic wine. This 2013 follows up the absolutely exceptional 2012. This hotter vintage red is nearly as good. Woodward sourced this wine from the Champoux, Sagemoor, Woodward Canyon Estate, Charbonneau, Discovery, Spring Creek and Summit View vineyards. It is comprised of 87% Cabernet with 11% Petite Verdot and 2% Cab Franc. The wine develops in the glass with aromas of red currant, graphite, sage and blackberry on the nose. Hints of milk chocolate in there as well. There are flavors of blackberry, anise, blueberry puree, oak and creme de cassis. Lovely and rich bottling that needs some time in the bottle to develop. The structure to this wine is impressive.  Drink 2017-2030- 93

52) 2012 Robert Mondavi ‘Reserve’ Fume Blanc ($60.00)- Having 5% Semillon blended in the Sav Blanc, this impressive wine starts with aromatics of cut grass, Jalapeño, cedar and macadamia nut. There are dense flavors of Bartlett pear, nutmeg, and Gala apple. Lovely weight and texture that is one of a kind. Drink 2016-2024- 93

53) 2014 Waitsburg Cellars 'Chevray' Chenin Blanc ($18.00)- This impressive Chenin has aromas of unripe pear, cantaloupe, red delicious apple. Flavors of poached pear, starfruit, and Meyer lemon zest, persist alongside incredible structure and minerality. This has a real personality. Drink 2016-2025- 92

54) 2013 Corison ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet ($90.00)- This gorgeous wine starts with aromatics of mocha, sage, anise and mocha. This is currently highly tannic and intense this will need time to unwind. The wine has deep flavors of blackberry cobbler, mocha, anise and creme de cassis with suggestions of pipe tobacco. This is gorgeous and layered wine that need a ton of time in the cellar for the tannins to settle and the fruit to fully integrate. Give this slumbering monster at least two more years. Drink 2018-2040- 94

55) 2013 Andrew Januik 'Lady Hawk' Cabernet ($40.00) - This is primarily Lady Hawk Vineyard fruit with some Alder Ridge Vineyard fruit blended in. The wine stars with aromas of mocha, blackberry preserves, creosote and sagebrush. There are flavors of blackberry pie, mocha, sandalwood, black olive and green bell pepper. Lovely mouthfeel and fruit weight to this intense but balanced Cabernet. Try to wait another year before enjoying.  Drink 2017-2029- 93

56) 2012 Ridge ‘Mill’ Zinfandel ($40.00)- This excellent Zin has 25% Petite Sirah blended in. The wine has lovely weight and texture, as the wine glides through the mid-palate with flavors of red cherry, sagebrush, wild blackberry and black plum. Like the other Ridge Zins the structure of this wine is stunning. There is some wonderful aging potential with this expressive Zinfandel. Drink 2016-2025- 94

57) 2013 Col Solare Red Wine ($75.00)- The 2013 Col Solare follows up the exceptional 2012 bottling. This wine is a blend of 88% Cabernet, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Merlot and 2% Malbec. As it slowly develops in the glass and needing more than a one hour decant, the wine begins with aromas of mocha, sandalwood, blueberry compote, and suggestions of creosote. There are flavors of blackberry jam, mocha, creme de cassis, graphite, anise and Turkish coffee. The fruit weight and tannic structure on the mid-palate makes this red wine an absolute beast. Layered and polished, try to not enjoy this seamless effort for at least another two years. Drink 2019-2033- 94

58) 2015 Cote Bonneville Rose ($30.00)- Made from 100% Cab Franc. The wine opens with aromas of rose petals, cranberry sauce and red cherry with suggestions of cantaloupe. There are flavors of ripe pear, orange rind, red raspberry and a light cream finish. The mouthfeel is rich and has a velvety texture that you might not anticipate.  Lovely stuff from this estate. Drink 2016-2020- 92

59) 2014 Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc ($35.00)-The wine states with aromatics reminiscent of peach pit, roasted pear and Gala apple. There are flavors of Pink Lady apple, vanilla cream and gooseberry. Gorgeous wine with lovely weight and viscosity. The texture makes this one of a kind. Drink 2016-2024- 93

60) 2013 Caymus 'Special Selection' Cabernet Sauvignon ($180.00) -The 2013 Caymus 'Special Selection' Cabernet Sauvignon is a memorable wine that shows the heat of an epic vintage for Napa Cabernet. Initially aromatically subdued, this wine needs a one hour decant to better assert itself. This intense wine starts with aromatics of mocha, tar, sagebrush, black cherry and black plum. There are exceedingly deep flavors of anise, creme de cassis, coffee grounds, creosote and blackberry cobbler. The fruit weight is exceedingly broad and the plush texture coats the mid-palate. This is a massive, masculine Cabernet that isn't for the weary. Try to give this heavyhitter of a wine at least another year for the fruit to fully amalgamate. Drink 2017-2040- 95

61) 2012 Andrew Will ‘Ciel du Cheval’ Red Wine ($80.00)- This flagship wine from this estate is one of the best that I have sampled from Andrew Will in the past 10 years. The wine has aromas of sandalwood, red cherry mocha and figs. The density coats the palate, yielding intense flavors of blackberry, anise, mocha and creme de cassis. Dense and delicious wine that will cellar beautifully. Drink 2016-2028- 94

62) 2012 Cardinale Red Wine ($150.00)- This massive wine opens with aromas of anise, creme de cassis, mocha, blueberry compote and cedar. There are gorgeous and layered flavors reminiscent of anise, Christmas spice, mocha and creme de cassis. Incredible intensity and structure with moderate tannins. Gorgeous fruit weight and poise to this memorable bottling that's surprisingly ready to drink. Just be sure to give it at least a one hour decant beforehand. Drink 2016-2040- 96

63) 2013 Sixto ‘Frenchman Hills Vineyard’ Chardonnay ($55.00)- This expressive Chardonnay bottling begins with deep aromas of butter, brioche and pear. This leads to dense flavors of starfruit, red delicious apple, and nutmeg with brioche. Lovely intensity. Drink 2016-2022- 93

64) 2013 Dunham Cabernet Franc ($50.00)- This winery only bottling is sourced from Double Canyon fruit. The Cab Franc opens with aromatics of red cherry, red raspberry, blueberry compote and hints of coffee grounds. There are dense flavors of blueberry, boysenberry and mint. Lovely depth to this fantastic bottling. The structure makes this hard to resist right now. Kudos to the Dunham winemaking team on this one. Drink 2016-2026- 93

65) 2014 Willakenzie Estate ‘Triple Black Slope’ Pinot Noir ($75.00)- One of the best Oregon Pinot Noirs that I have sampled in the past year, the 2014 'Triple Black Slopes' by WillaKenzie estate is an absolute heavyhitter of a wine. Utilizing Dijon Clones 114 and 777, this perfumed Pinot Noir begins with bright aromatics of red cherry, black plum, cigar box, black truffle and boysenberry liqueur. There are intense flavors of wild blackberry pie, cigar box, cran-cherry and Asian spices. This has an incredibly dense core, and has the makings to be magical, albeit a bit tightly wound right now. There is a seamless quality to this exceptional dark and brooding Oregon Pinot which is currently displaying an irresistible plush mouthfeel. Sampled the next day, the wine was more open and rounded out. Try to wait on this gorgeous bottling for at least another year. Drink 2017-2028- 95

66) 2013 Passing Time Cabernet Sauvignon ($75.00)- The 2013 Passing Time Cabernet is a stunner from highly talented head winemaker Chris Peterson. The wine is an amalgamation of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon (mainly from Discovery Vineyard) and 3% Cabernet Franc. The 80% new French oak component is well-integrated and contributes to a silky mouthfeel. This impressive Cabernet begins with aromatics of anise, pipe tobacco, and creme de cassis with suggestions of black cherry. This leads to flavors of anise, blueberry and creme de cassis with mocha. The eye-catching texture created by Peterson has his signature on the wine. Despite the heat of the vintage, there is a Bordealaise feel to this plush wine. While this warm vintage wine this is drinking beautifully right now, I think this will cellar gracefully into the next decade. - Drink 2016-2028- 94

67) 2014 Cougar Crest Viognier ($18.00)- The Viognier is one of their best bottling each year and this vintage is no exception. This lovely expression begins with bright aromas of beeswax, lychee and ripe pear. This leads to flavors of Gala apple, starfruit and roasted peaches. Absolutely delicious wine. Drink 2016-2022- 91

68) 2014 Sleight of Hand Cellars 'The Psychedelic' Stony Vine Vineyard Syrah ($60.00)- The 2014 'Psychedelic' starts with aromas of smoked pork shoulder, tar, sage, blood orange and hints of Umami. There are deep flavors of Mandarin orange, Umami, black truffle and seaweed with red cherry accents. Lithe and polished, this displays a tremendous aromatic and flavor range, and I expect it will age beautifully. Only 350 cases made of this simply delicious wine. Drink 2016-2026- 94

69) 2013 La Jota Cabernet Sauvignon - ($90.00)- This wine saw 19 months in primarily new French oak before bottling and is a blend of 75% Cabernet with 10% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec. Needing a significant three plus hours decant, this ultra-dark hued, decadent Cabernet begins with dense aromas of cassis, black cherry, coffee grounds, sage, red bell pepper and hints of blueberry pie. There are intense flavors of creme de cassis, mocha, Black Forest cake, and a graphite edge. If enjoying young, be sure to give this monster of a wine a considerable decant and aeration. The minerality of this gorgeous wine shines through. Drink 2018-2035- 95

70) 2011 Ken Wright Cellars ‘Celilo Vineyard’ Chardonnay ($32.00)-  The 2011 'Celilo Vineyard' Chardonnay is an exceptional effort by Ken Wright that is a rather late release wine from this estate. Sourced from this esteemed 1000 ft. elevation site in the Columbia Gorge region, the Celilo Vineyard is a very cool site for Chardonnay which was first planted in 1983. This wine opens with aromas of roasted hazelnuts, buttered popcorn, and brioche toast. This leads to flavors of Gala apple, vanilla cream, poached pear and nutmeg. This has marvelous texture, minerality and a seamless quality to this exceedingly cool vintage wine. This wine delivers some serious value at this price point. Drink 2016-2024- 93

71) 2014 Beaux Freres 'The Beaux Freres Vineyard Cuvée '59' Pinot Noir ($120.00)- This special wine is sourced from the two oldest blocks in the vineyard. The Pinot Noir begins with exotic aromatics of guava puree, pomegranate, Shitake mushroom and blood orange. This wine has flavors reminiscent of rose petals, guava, marionberry jam and strawberry pie. This wine has an absolutely outstanding finish to this feminine style bottling. Drink 2016-2030- 95

72) 2013 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon ($100.00)- The Cabernet is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec. They chose to source from a host of Walla Walla vineyards including McQueen, Bob Healy, LeFore, Seven Hills, Pepper Bridge and Waliser. Winemaker Josh McDaniels aged this in 75% new French oak and 25% second fill French oak barrels for 22 months. This decadent bottling has dense aromas of red currant, sandalwood, blackberry compote, mocha and roasted figs. This leads to rich flavors of graphite, dill, blackberry cobbler, anise and spicebox with moderate tannins. This really needs another two plus years of bottle age. A slumbering giant right now. Drink 2018-2035- 95

73) 2013 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($80.00)- This limited release Cabernet is a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot that saw 100% new French Oak (Taransaud & Orion). This expressive bottling begins with intense aromas of red bell pepper, anise, red cherry and spicebox with dill accents. Lovely aromatics. Flavors of red cherry, red raspberry, mocha, blackberry and anise persist. The mouthfeel is smooth and mineral driven. Incredible complexity here from this uber-talented winemaker. Give this thing a serious decant, at least one hour, before enjoying. Drink 2016-2030- 94

74) 2012 BV 'Georges de Latour' Cabernet Sauvignon ($120.00)- BV has made this wine for decades and this is up there with the best bottlings that I have had since the ’96. This impressive wine opens with a lovely range of aromas including red currant, dill, red bell pepper, wild blackberry and anise. There are rich flavors of blackberry cobbler, coffee grounds, creme de cassis and anise. Incredible complexity and texture to this gorgeous Cabernet that has some medium tannins. Up there with the best in the valley. If enjoying now, be sure to give this a two hour decant. Drink 2016-2035- 94

75) 2013 Result of A Crush Red Wine ($20.00)- This wine is every bit outstanding as its '12 younger brother. This also captures some lovely Walla Walla rocks characteristics with a stony fruit profile. The wine begins with aromas of creosote, tar, sagebrush, red cherry, and wet rocks with blackberry. There are dense flavors of black olive, minerals and smoked meats and black cherry that persist. This displays a slightly darker fruit profile than the '12. A great value out of the Walla Walla rocks. Drink 2016-2026 -92

76) 2014 Argyle 'Nuthouse' Pinot Noir ($55.00) - This esteemed bottling that follows up the excellent 2013 'Nuthouse' was sourced from the Spirit Hill Vineyard (65%) as well as from the Lone Star Vineyard (35%). The wine opens with rich aromatics of black truffle, black cherry, red raspberry, dried mint and suggestions of spicebox. The palate is plush, showcasing this warm vintage. Not needing a decant, you can taste red raspberry, black cherry, black olive, forest floor, black truffle and boysenberry preserves with a marvelous saline component. While this will cellar well into the next decade, why wait? This is decadent right now. Drink 2016-2026- 93

77) 2014 Charles and Charles Cabernet/Syrah ($10.00)- This Cab/Syrah blend is a collaboration of Charles Bieler and Charles Smith.  Their goal was to employ the techniques of a small production wine and produce it on a large scale.  In a lot of ways, they hit the mark.  The full bodied deep purple wine has a nose of blackberry with a hint of blueberry and licorice from the whole cluster Syrah.  The fruit seamlessly continues through the palate, and the lower 13.5% alcohol, along with firm but smooth tannins allow this wine to finish as well as it begins. It would pair well with heavy pasta, and while meant to be consumed now, it would be interesting to see how the wine evolves over the next 3-5 years. Drink 2016-2023- 90 (S.L.)

78) 2014 Banshee ‘Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay ($20.00)- This wine was 90% barrel fermented for 11 months (40% new) and was sourced from the Heintz vineyard as well as the Bohemian vineyard in Green Valley. This wine begins with Aromas of orange blossoms, ripe Bartlett pear and Gala apple with nutmeg accents. There are flavors of golden delicious apple, starfruit, Bartlett pear and creme brûlée. There is a slight saline streak alongside a long finish. Nice viscosity here. Drink 2016-2023- 91

79) 2012 Foxen ‘Solomon Hills Vineyard’ Pinot Noir ($58.00)- This vineyard was planted in 1997 and is on the far west side of the AVA that is a north to south facing hills. This has aromas of nutmeg, black cherry and raspberry. There are flavors of red cherry, pomegranate and wonderful acidity. This has good balance and richness. Drink 2015-2025- 93

80) 2012 Lauren Ashton ‘Proprietor's Cuvee’ Red Wine ($50.00)- This wine is a blend of 65% Cabernet, 19% Merlot, 10% Cab Franc, 3% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot. The blend opens with bright aromas of smoke, red cherry, blackberry and with sage and mocha. There are rich flavors of mocha, red cherry, red raspberry, green bell pepper and anise. This is a delicious and layered effort that truly captures the art of blending. Drink 2016-2026- 94

81) 2014 Rotie Cellars ‘Northern Blend’ Red Wine ($40.00)- A traditional Cote Rotie style wine, this has 5% Viognier blended into the Syrah. Needing a one hour decant to fully display itself, as the wine settles in the glass it starts to bring smoky aromas of creosote, provencale herbs, smoked brisket, and suggestions of cayenne dark chocolate. The inky colored Syrah wine has flavors reminiscent of blueberry puree, bacon fat, wild blackberry jam, milk chocolate and sagebrush. There is a lot to love here. This is plush, round and impossible to resist right now. Drink 2016-2025- 93

82) 2014 Archery Summit 'Arcus Estate' Pinot Noir ($150.00) - Having a deep core, the wine starts with perfumed aromatics of black cherry, black raspberry, black truffle, white pepper and black plum. There are flavors reminiscent of black cherry, black truffle oil and black raspberry. The weight and balance of this wine is simply gorgeous. Try to avoid drinking this exceptional Pinot for another two years. Drink 2018-2033- 95

83) 2013 Amavi ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah ($33.00) - The Syrah was sourced from 54% Les Collines, 26% Stone Valley, 11% Seven Hills, 7% Pepper Bridge, and 2% Summit View vineyards. This wine begins of smoked meats, blackberry pie, mocha and a graphite edge. This leads to rich flavors of blackberry preserves, loganberry, coffee grounds with nice intensity. Good balance and fruit weight to this excellent value Syrah. This is drinking beautifully straight out of the bottle. Drink 2016-2025- 92

84) 2012 Robert Mondavi ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon ($155.00)- This impressive bottling starts with rich aromatics reminiscent of mocha, creme de cassis, graphite and black olive with suggestions of Black Forest cake. There are deep flavors of anise, spicebox, creme de cassis, mocha and pipe tobacco. This is a profound wine that is up there with the best of Napa Valley. It is impossible to resist right now. Drink 2016-2035- 95

85) 2013 Artesa ‘Estate Reserve’ Chardonnay ($35.00)- The 2013 Artesa 'Estate Reserve' follows up the excellent 2012 bottling. Sourced from 20 year old vines from their Carneros Estate Vineyard, the wine weighs in at 14.4% alcohol but does not display much heat on the mid-palate. The wine was aged 8 months in new French oak barrels prior to bottling. Artesa has absolutely nailed this new release Chardonnay that has seen extended bottle time. On the nose the wine starts with a rich bouquet of oak, creme brulee, bananas foster and hints of tangerine blossom. There are flavors of marzipan, roasted pineapple, brioche, orange zest and vanilla cream. Not for the weary, this is exceedingly developed, structured and layered Chardonnay with intense flavors that pack a punch.- Drink 2016-2023- 93

86) 2013 Kerloo 'Stone Tree Vineyard' Malbec ($35.00)- This Malbec is sourced from the Wahluke slope and shows the potential for this varietal in this area. The wine was aged in 75% neutral French oak so there's a small percentage of new oak. Sourced from two different blocks which were harvested a week apart, the Stonetree vineyard sits on a 250 acre property in Mattawa, Washington. There are aromatics of milk chocolate, dill, blueberry and blackberry. This leads to flavors of blueberry, anise, blackberry and mocha. This is a dense and delicious effort by head winemaker Ryan Crane that is hard to resist right now. Drink 2016-2025- 92

87) 2013 Goldeneye 'Ten Degrees' Pinot Noir ($120.00)-This complex bottling completes the strong lineup of Goldeneye Pinots. The wine involves 96 different blocks of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir. The wine opens with rich aromas of strawberry, red cherry, cola, red raspberry and pomegranate. There are deep flavors of cherry pie, cran-pomegranate, guava puree, cola and nutmeg. This has gorgeous texture, rich ripe fruit flavors and nice minerality. The fruit weight, viscosity and mouthfeel contributes to this exceptional bottling.  Drink 2016-2028- 94

88) 2014 Dunham ‘Lewis Vineyard’ Riesling ($24.00)- This excellent Riesling wine was made with 1.4% residual sugar. The wine comes from Riesling vines planted in 2001 and 2002 at the Lewis Vineyard. The wine opens with aromatics of Gala apple, green papaya and hints of petroleum and starfruit. There are flavors of lemon/lime, crushed wet rock, lemon zest and white peach. This has a gorgeous range of flavors and complexity. Drink 2016-2024- 92

89) 2013 Novelty Hill ‘Stillwater Creek Vineyard’ Chardonnay ($23.00)- This lovely Stillwater Creek Vineyard bottling starts with aromas of nutmeg, brioche, poached pear and Pazzaz apple. This leads to flavors of poached pear, cantaloupe and Gala apple with suggestions of mushroom. Gorgeous and open with a strong acid backbone. Drink 2016-2022- 92

90) 2013 Groth ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon ($130.00)- The Reserve block at Groth's estate vineyard spans 27.8 acres and is set on Yolo loam and gravel strata soil. This wine was aged in 100% French oak for 25 months prior to bottling. They have elected to blend 24% Hillside Vineyard Merlot into the Cabernet wine. Head winemaker Michael Weis has crafted a stunning Cabernet wine here as the 2013 Groth 'Reserve' bottling is every bit as good as the gorgeous 2012 'Reserve' Cabernet. This massive Cabernet opens with an aromatic profile of creosote, dark chocolate, pencil shavings, blackberry preserves and espresso bean. The stunning aromatics bring you back to the glass for more. Dense on the mid-palate, the wine has flavors reminiscent of anise, creme de cassis, black forest cake and an absolutely gorgeous texture. There is a seamless quality to this dense, fruit-driven Cabernet that still maintains a Bordelaise feel in this hot vintage. This Cabernet needs at least a three hour decant for the fruit to fully integrate, but try to hold this at least another year. Drink 2017-2035- 94

91) 2012 Alexandria Nicole 'Gravity' Merlot ($25.00)-This wine is an excellent new release from this estate and comes at an impressive price point. This wine starts with aromas of black cherry, mocha, anise and red bell pepper. There are flavors of blackberry cobbler, black cherry, black olive and a smoky edge. Drink 2016-2024- 91

92) 2013 Michael David ‘Petite Petit’ Red Wine ($12.00)- This is the follow up to the absolutely exceptional 2012 bottling which is a blend of Petit Verdot and Petite Sirah. The wine begins with aromas of blueberry, blackberry cobbler and anise with mocha. There are dense flavors of blackberry, blueberry compote, mocha and pipe tobacco. This is delicious and open style wine that delivers gobs of fruit and is impossible to resist, particularly at this price point. Drink 2016-2022- 91

93) 2013 Owen Roe ‘Yakima Valley’ Red Wine ($28.00)- The 2013 'Yakima Valley' Red Wine by Owen Roe is a fantastic value new release from this estate. This great wine is a blend of 45% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Franc, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon that was aged 10 months in French oak. This red wine starts with bright aromas of red cherry, sage, red bell pepper and anise. This leads to smooth flavors of red bell pepper, anise, cassis and blackberry jam. I see some really nice cellaring potential here.Drink 2016-2026- 92

94) 2014 Del Dotto Chardonnay ($85.00)- The 2014 Del Dotto Chardonnay, sourced from the Sonoma Coast, is a stunner of a wine that impresses from start to finish. This has aromas of butterscotch, poached pear, and creme brulee. There are flavors of creme brulee, vanilla, bananas foster and hints of allspice. This has an opulent texture and mouthfeel, as the intensity of this wine brings you back to the glass for more. The lingering, 45 plus second finish, is absolutely marvelous. This will have a long life in the cellar, as I can see this picking up some exciting secondary characteristics over the next decade. Drink 2016-2022- 94

95) 2015 Maryhill Chardonnay ($16.00)- The 2015 Maryhill Chardonnay is a fantastic value release from this estate. Sourced from both the Milbrandt Vineyard and the Tudor Hills Vineyard, this green hued white begins with aromas of roasted pineapple, pear, Pink Lady apple and hints of nutmeg. There are flavors of brioche, vanilla cream, Gala apple and suggestions of starfruit. Bright and balanced, with a creamy finish, this value Chardonnay is hard to resist right now. This balanced effort will cellar well in the short-term. Drink 2016-2022- 90

96) 2014 Ardor Cellars 'Stoney Vine Vineyard' Syrah ($40.00)- Located in Walla Walla and first planted in 2007, vines from the Stoney Vine Vineyard are set on an ancient alluvial fan of river tumbled basalt cobblestones formed by the Walla Walla river. The stones in this vineyard can be quite massive. The wine begins with the prototypical Walla Walla rocks nose with crushed wet rock, red cherry, red raspberry and blackberry pie aromatics. In the glass flavors of blackberry, black cherry, anise, wet stone and graphite emerge, alongside wonderful minerality. This mineral driven Syrah is absolutely fantastic and is hard to put down right now. Drink 2017-2027- 94

97) 2013 Mark Ryan ‘The Dead Horse’ Cabernet Sauvignon ($75.00)- The wine is sourced mostly from Red Mountain, with a touch of Red Willow fruit. This wine begins with aromatics of blackberry compote, creme de cassis and sage. The wine has flavors of blackberry, cassis, in this sense full bodied effort. Lovely texture and tannic structure. Drink 2016-2028- 94

98) 2014 WALT 'Bob's Ranch' Pinot Noir ($60.00)- The wine is sourced from the Russian River Valley and is the first vintage from this vineyard, in the Petuluma Wind Gap, a cool 75 acre site owned by WALT. The vineyard was planted by Paul Hobbs. The wine begins with aromatics of pipe tobacco, rose petals, red cherry, cola and hints of sage. There are bright flavors of cran-cherry, sage, mint, cola and pomegranate seed. Lithe and full-bodied, this is intense and vibrant, showing excellent structure.  Drink 2016-2028-94

99) 2013 Baer 'Arctos' Red Wine ($43.00)- The 2013 'Arctos' by Baer is a gorgeous new release wine that is a blend of 84% Cabernet with 8% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot. Showing some restraint now, this Cabernet more than two hours in the decanter to unwind. This wine opens with aromatics of anise, sagebrush, dill and black olive. There are flavors of black cherry, black olive, wild blackberry preserves and tar in this very black fruit filled amalgamation. There is a gorgeous and polished texture to this wine and an almost Bordelaise feel that is striking considering the heat of the vintage. This wine is a joy to savor right now as this is beautifully done by head winemaker Erica Orr. Drink 2016-2029- 93

100) 2011 Corliss Estates Cabernet Sauvignon ($100.00)-The 2011 Corliss Estates Cabernet Sauvignon is a striking effort from this challenging vintage. This late release wine opens with aromatics of graphite, black olive, black cherry and sagebrush with hints of thyme and eucalyptus. A highly herbaceous aromatic profile, the palate has a deep core with earthy flavors of black cherry, graphite, coffee grounds, black olive, with chewy moderate tannins. The structure of this wine is gorgeous, having a great left bank Bordeaux feel. Give this wine another year in the bottle before enjoying. Drink 2017-2030- 94

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