While I know that I just wrote a Doubleback feature, I am simply compelled to write about these incredible new releases. Doubleback has evolved into one of the truly outstanding producers of red and white wines in the state. The storied project founded by NFL legend, Drew Bledsoe and his wife, Maura. Drew has circled back following his brilliant career. Originally from Walla Walla, he was a star at Walla Walla High School before his illustrious tenure at Washington State University. Drew has 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. But there was something special about wines from his home state, as he grew to love the balance of the wines of this region that weren’t old world but also weren’t Napa.
Drew returned to Walla Walla in 2007 to plant his estate vineyard, McQueen on the southern end of the Walla Walla Valley AVA. Doubleback was born in 2008 which would focus on estate fruit to create world class Cabernet Sauvignon from Walla Walla. Drew knew 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 humble when talking about his successes. For my palate he is one of the finest winemakers in the Pacific Northwest. I adored his new Cabernet releases and his new 2019 Doubleback Chardonnay (OB, 95) is the finest Washington Chardonnay I have tasted in the past year. Think Kongsgaard meets Walla Walla. Decadent and rich with amazing layers and nuance, this has some seriously good aging potential. Learn more about these sensational new wines at http://www.doubleback.com/ Here are the gorgeous new 2021 spring release wines by Doubleback.
2019 Doubleback Chardonnay- I continue to be blown away with the quality of Chardonnay that Josh McDaniels delivers for Doubleback. Made in a very Kongsgaardesque style, this shows off ripe pineapple with creme brulee, banana and salted Macadamia nut aromas that all mingle in the glass. The palate is seamless showing off its silky texture. Ripe and plump on the mouth, this delivers gobs of orchard fruits with shades of roasted pineapple, vanilla creme brûlée and nutty undertones. This has some seriously good aging potential as this is one of the finest editions of Washington Chardonnay that I have tasted over the past decade. Exotic, and downright sensational to enjoy in its youth, enjoy this brilliant new wine over the next decade. Drink 2021-2029- 95
2019 Doubleback Merlot- The 2019 Doubleback Merlot is a resounding success from this somewhat challenging vintage. Right away you the heady aromas of tar and anise alongside black currants and cocoa powder that all mingle together in the glass. The palate shows a dense mouthfeel and really reveals itself after two hours in the decanter. Ripe blackberry and black cherry tones mingle with creosote and allspice flavors with sagebrush undertones. This has really good finesse. Gorgeous to enjoy now, this has another ten to fifteen years of life ahead of it. Drink 2021-2027- 94