Chris and Thea Upchurch are truly two of the great people in Washington wine. Their winery, Upchurch Vineyard, is a sight to be seen on Red Mountain. Modern and chic, the winery is connected to their house that looks out across the valley. I can’t think of a more gorgeous spot to taste wine in the state. Chris Upchurch is the founding winemaker and partner of DeLille Cellars. He and his wife, Thea, finally got the urge to start their own winery project which was completed in 2016. The vineyard, itself, was planted in 2007. Walking through the vineyard, I couldn’t help but notice how meticulously farmed each row was. Dick Boushey oversees the vineyard management and the vineyard looks incredible healthy and downright pristine.
I recently visited this stunning winery and chatted with the Chris and Thea about their new wines. They have now released a knockout white wine, the 2016 Upchurch Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc (WWB, 93) which is truly one of the best of its kind. The texture, mouthfeel and range of this wine is truly spellbinding, as Chris has absolutely nailed this white wine which walks the tight rope between refreshing and unctuous. Learn more about this outstanding winery at https://upchurchvineyard.com Here are the outstanding new releases by Upchurch Vineyard.
2015 Upchurch Vineyards ‘Counterpart’ Red Wine- A compelling blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine was entirely sourced from the Upchurch Estate Vineyard in Red Mountain. The hedonistic nose starts this wine off with creme de cassis, leather, red currant and mocha. The combination of poise and balance is really lovely here. Black tea, mocha, creme de cassis and sagebrush flavors connect with a nice tension. This is an impressive effort by superstar winemaker Chris Upchurch. Drink 2018-2028- 93
2016 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc- The 2016 Upchurch Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is truly one of the best of its kind in Washington. On the nose, the wine brings out an exotic edge with poached pear, apricot and lighter grassy tones. The palate has an oily texture and a wonderfully rich mouthfeel. Kumquat, cut grass, kiwi and bright Gravenstein apple flavors come to mind. Layered and downright delicious, be sure to enjoy this at a slightly warmer temperature where the wine shows its gorgeous range in its entirety. Drink 2018-2028- 93