A winery with a longstanding history in the Walla Walla Valley, Basel Cellars dates back to 2002 which ironically was the year I graduated from Whitman College. Local grape grower Greg Basel purchased the Estate House and the surrounding 85 acre Double River Ranch. Most of the unique custom features from the original house remain, including a gated entrance with grand driveway under a turreted bridge, 70,000 gallon pool with 2,048 square foot detached private cabana, and one-of-a-kind wood and stonework throughout the property. At this site, Mr. Basel saw two vital components to create an estate winery.
The rich soil and the hilltop position between Yellowhawk Creek and the Walla Walla River made for the perfect vineyard site. The second component was a man-made, 9600sq. ft., temperature controlled, subterranean structure (now referred to as "The Batcave") which had previously housed a car collection. The underground space was as perfect for winemaking akin to the caves of France. The winery has a new ownership which includes Chad Mackay, founder of El Gaucho hospitality and Dan Thiessen, managing partner of the Walla Walla Steak Company and Crossbuck Brewing.
It was many years ago that I first visited this property outside the town of Walla Walla. Now at the helm is winemaker Dirk Brink who is originally from South Africa. His new wines were really nice. I enjoyed the 2019 Basel Cellars Chenin Blanc (OB, 90) which shows of a silky texture and has good ripeness and acidity. Evne better is the 2016 Basel Cellars ‘Merriment’ Red Wine (OB, 91) which is a great warm vintage effort that is drinking marvelously now at the five year mark. Learn more at https://www.baselcellars.com Here are my notes on the new wines by Basel Cellars.
2019 Basel Cellars Chenin Blanc- Sourced from old vines, this leans towards texture and delivers plenty of ripe orchard fruits alongside lemongrass and nutty undertones. Drink 2021-2025- 90
2015 Basel Cellars ‘Inspired’ Red Wine- A right bank inspired wine comprised of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the ‘Inspired’ shows black tea and exotic spices woven together with red cherry candy and red bell pepper undertones on the palate. Nicely balanced, enjoy this over the next five years. Drink 2021-2026- 90
2016 Basel Cellars ‘Merriment’ Red Wine- The ‘Merriment’ delivers well-balanced cassis and dark currant flavors alongside shades of wild blackberry, milk chocolate and tobacco leaf on the palate. This is right in its sweet spot. Drink 2021-2026- 91