Now for more than a decade Avennia has been producing great wines that embody poise, terroir and good richness. A partnership between former Microsoft executive Marty Taucher and superstar winemaker Chris Peterson, Avennia focuses on high quality Rhone and Bordeaux style wines. One of the state’s great winemakers, Chris Peterson was formerly DeLille Cellars winemaker for many years prior to starting Avennia. I recently had the chance to meet up with him at a local release party and catch up. He is very bullish on his new spring release wines which come from both the 2020 and 2021 vintages.
Chris has a penchant for making some outstanding Rose that is highly nuanced and finesse-driven. His 2021 Avennia Rose (OB, 92) is very refined stuff that is best served a touch warmer to savor the entire beautiful range of flavors and aromatics. I adored the new 2020 Avennia ‘La Perle’ White Wine (OB, 93) which improves with an hour of air and is beautifully textured Southern Rhone style wine. I think this beauty has some really good cellaring potential. Learn more about these special wines at avennia.com Here are my reviews of the new Avennia wines.
2020 Avennia ‘Oliane’ Sauvignon Blanc- Sourced from the Boushey (70%) and Red Willow (30%) Vineyards, the gorgeous tenth edition ‘Oliane’ is a rousing rendition that shows some good cellaring potential. Honeysuckle, white peach and kiwi tones all combine on the nose, with wet stone undercurrents. The palate is vibrant with a seamless texture and good depth and finesse. Finishing long, this is very refined Sauvignon Blanc that is best served a bit warmer for its full aromatic and flavor expression. Drink 2022-2029- 93
2020 Avennia ‘La Perle’ White Wine- A Southern Rhone inspired blend of 65% Roussanne and 35% Marsanne, the really good 2020 ‘La Perle’ evokes fragrant star jasmine, lychee and Pink Lady apple aromas that all meld in the glass. Soft and seamless on the mouth, this glides throughout the drinking experience, finishing very long with vanilla cream and minerals. Drink 2022-2030- 93
2021 Avennia ‘L’Egerie’ Rose- This beautiful, salmon-colored 2021 Rose was sourced from the Columbia Valley, and blends 75% Grenache with the reminder Mourvedre. Very delicate aromas of teaberry and guava puree greet you, with red rose water and hints of tangerine peel. The palate is very fresh and focused, with pinpoint balance. Nectarine and cranberry notes mingle well with strawberry and suggestions of wet stone. Drink 2022-2029- 92