It is my pleasure to share the beautiful wines of Erica Orr. One of the amazing talents in Washington wine, Erica Orr has long been at the helm at Baer. Many years back she sought to re-create some of the Washington wines of yesteryear in crafting top class Chenin Blanc. This was a major hit for the consumer and somms alike. All of her red wines come from the esteemed Stillwater Creek Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA — a site that she is very familiar with, as her Baer wines also come from that location.
Erica Orr has a gorgeous new lineup. She makes one of the best Chenin Blanc wines in Washington. The 2025 Orr Wines Chenin Blanc (OB, 93) has amazing texture and flavor range. Learn more about these great wines at orrwines.com and here are my reviews of the new wines by Erica Orr.
2025 Orr Wines Chenin Blanc- One of the great wines of its kind, the 2025 Orr Wines Chenin Blanc offers a seamless texture on the approach. Loaded with cashew and melon fruits, with lovely damp earthy nuances, this is drinking marvelously right now. Don’t serve too cold! Drink 2026-2033- 93
2024 Orr Wines ‘Salumeria’ Red Wine- The outstanding 2024 ‘Salumeria’ is mainly Sangiovese (58%) with 37$ Cabernet Sauvignon and the remainder Merlot coming from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard. It is a well-structured and delightful Super Tuscan-inspired blend, with a pretty core of red fruits alongside dried herbs, pipe tobacco and milk chocolate notes. Refined tannins, and good length add to the enjoyment here as this is best enjoyed over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93
2024 Orr Wines ‘Royal Slope’ Red Wine- A wine with a great cause, the 2024 Orr Wines ‘Royal Slope’ Red Wine comes from donated grapes from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard, as proceeds go to Columbia Valley vineyard workers. This is forward, juicy and delicious with a smooth texture. Lush dark fruits mingle well with Arabica and salty soil notes on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 92
2024 Orr Wines ‘Columbia Valley’ Grenache- The 2024 ‘Columbia Valley’ Grenache is a delicious, highly approachable bottling. This is filled with pretty guava and red raspberry fruits that combine with white pepper dusted charcuterie. Smooth throughout the drinking experience, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2033- 93