One of the standout Walla Walla wineries, Abeja not only has a stunning setting but a wine lineup that is even better than the sweeping views. I’ve enjoyed tasting here for many years and this years lineup rivals the best I’ve had from this estate. Set in the foothills of Walla Walla’s Blue Mountains, Abeja has seven luxury cottages, creeks, and gardens on the 32 acre property. Abeja relies on the winemaking talents of Dan Wampfler and Amy Alvarez-Wampfler. Both Dan and Amy have roughly a combined 30 years of winemaking experience. They work closely together on the wines and craft truly one of the great overall lineups of wine.
One of the great Chardonnays in Washington, the 2016 Abeja ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) has an incredible bouquet and wonderful weight and texture. This outstanding wine will continue to evolve in the cellar. One of the great Washington Merlots that I have tried in the past year, the 2015 Abeja Merlot (WWB, 94) has incredible richness and tension from this warm vintage. This is one for the cellar. Learn more about this outstanding winery at http://www.abeja.net/ Here are the great new wines by Abeja.
2016 Abeja ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay- This ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay was sourced from the Celilo, Connor Lee, and Mill Creek Estate vineyards. This begins with aromas of poached pear, butter and lemon cream. The palate has wonderful mouthfeel with green apple, poached pear and creme brulee flavors. This is every bit outstanding and will continue to evolve well for years in the cellar. Drink 2018-2028- 93
2016 Abeja ‘Beekeeper’s Blend’ Red Wine- This primarily Cabernet Sauvignon wine begins with dark fruits and coffee grounds on the nose. The palate mimics the nose with dark fruits shining through and a wonderful tension. This is a really good value Cabernet out of Washington. Drink 2018-2024- 91
2015 Abeja Merlot-Needing more than a two hour decant, this Columbia Valley bottling was sourced from the Sagemoor Farms, Weinbau, Heather Hill, Kiona and Heart of the Hill Vineyards. This begins with aromas of mocha, anise, creme de cassis and sagebrush. The palate has incredible tension and richness with black tea, mocha, creme de cassis and leather flavors that mingle with nice liberality. This Merlot is truly up there with the top bottlings in the state. Drink 2018-2030- 94
2015 Abeja Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Sagemoor Farms, Bacchus, Weinbau, Heather Hill, Kiona and Destiny Ridge Vineyards, this Cabernet Sauvignon includes 8% Merlot with a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The nose is intoxicating with creme de cassis, Turkish coffee and black tea. The palate is beautifully astringent with light tannins lining dark fruit and chocolate flavors. A show-stopper, this gorgeous effort will cellar marvelously for decades. Be sure to give this a very long decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2018-2035- 94