Just as it is important to share the wines of Quilted Creek and Cayuse, I have always sought to focus my reviews on wines that exude value. It is not the job of a wine critic to write every article on Opus One level wines — wines that most people can’t actually drink. One of the most recognizable wine brands in Washington State, Wines of Substance was founded back in 2015 by winemaker Charles Smith. Wines of Substance began producing high-quality, value-priced Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietals, characterized by a "periodic table" style label. It was acquired by O'Neill Vintners & Distillers in July 2024.
The new wines were really nice for the price. I highly enjoyed the 025 Wines of Substance ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ Rose (OB, 90) which is light on its feet and mineral-laden with plenty of red fruit nuance. Learn more at https://substancewines.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Wines of Substance.
2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc- The 2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc offers juicy kiwi and flinty tones on the palate with good freshness. Medium-bodied, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2030- 88
2025 Wines of Substance ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ Riesling- A really nice effort, the 2025 Wines of Substance ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ Riesling delivers just a kiss of sweetness alongside peach and flinty nuances on the palate, with petrol undertones. Drink 2026-2031- 90
2025 Wines of Substance ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ Rose- A delicious and crisp bottling, the 2025 Wines of Substance ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ Rose shows delicate red raspberry and Yakima cherry flavors alongside red rose water notes. Drink 2026-2030- 90
2023 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay- A well-balanced white, the 2023 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay shows a creamy texture with lychee and pineapple notes alongside baked bread. Drink 2026-2031- 90
2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Pinot Noir is brimming with bright red fruits, alongside salty soils and burnt orange notes on the palate. Drink 2026-2031- 90
2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Red Blend- The 2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Red Blend comes off soft and chewy on the palate. Refined tannins frame a light to medium-bodied dark cherry and blackberry core alongside hints of Arabica bean. Drink 2026-2031- 90
2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 Wines of Substance ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows bay leaf, black currants and sweet pipe tobacco notes on the nose. The palate is fresh and soft with a smooth mouthfeel. Drink 2026-2031- 90