FIGGINS

As part of Walla Walla Wine Month, we share one of the legendary producers of Washington. A Walla Walla native, Chris Figgins is one of the great talents of the Pacific Northwest. What was originally a wheat farm, the 32 acre vineyard was first planted in 2004 and plays host to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Originally Figgins Estate only made two wines each year, a Riesling and a Red Blend and last year they produced their first ‘Figlia’ as a tribute to Chris’s two daughters. The ‘Figlia’ really showcases the magic of Petit Verdot, a varietal that when done right can truly rival anything in the state. The Figgins Estate Vineyard is an incredible property that has sweeping views of the the Walla Walla Valley. Set at 1750 feet this great vineyard experiences massive diurnal shifts. The first vintage was 2008 and the wines from the vineyard just get better and better.

Chris Figgins makes one of the best Riesling wines in Washington, and his 2019 Figgins Estate Riesling (WWB, 93) is a ‘Trocken’ style wine that has seriously good texture, reminiscent of a great Rheingau Grosses Gewachs. This wine has great cellaring potential. Even better is the incredible new 2017 Figgins Family ‘Figlia’ Red Wine (WWB, 95) which is unlike anything made in the state with its incredible power and herbal tones from the Petit Verdot. This massive wine will cellar well for decades to come. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.figginswine.com Here are the stunning new wines by Figgins Estate.

2019 FIGGINS Riesling- Showing off its golden hue once in the glass, the outstanding, ‘Trocken style’ 2019 FIGGINS Riesling opens with bright Gala apple and shades of apricot and wet stone that all take shape in the glass. The freshness and soft texture of the wine is truly wonderful. Layers of green apple and peach pit brilliantly meld with minerals and suggestions of kumquat zest on the palate. This finishes long with minerals and lemon cream. Glorious to enjoy in its nascent phase, the 2019 FIGGINS Riesling has both the brightness and weight to cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2017 FIGGINS ‘Figlia’ Red Wine- Dedicated to Chris Figgins’s two daughters, the ‘Figlia’ is a massive blend of Merlot and Petit Verdot that is unlike anything produced in the state. Aged for twenty three months in French oak, this pitch dark wine starts off with lighter green bell pepper and sage tones that combine with toasty oak and a deep core of dark fruits that all sing in unison. Marvelously textured, with a wonderful weight and intensity, the wine shows off layers of creme de cassis, black olive tapenade, black cherry cordial and shades of anise that all create a seamless effect once on the mouth. The long and generous finish accentuates this beautiful new bottling. While marvelous to savor in its youth, the 2017 ‘Figlia’ will have a long life ahead of it. Be sure to give this at least a two hour decant if you can’t resist this wine for a few years. Drink 2022-2040- 95

Bergström Wines

Truly one of the great Willamette Valley houses, Bergström continues to craft a stunning array of Pinot Noir wines. Founded by John and Karen Bergström in 1999,  their son Josh Bergström, is at the winemaking helm. Following his completion of a postgraduate program in Viticulture and Enology in Burgundy, Josh made his first vintage of Pinot Noir from purchased fruit and the rest has been history. Josh serves as general manager, winemaker and vineyard manager at Bergström Wines, and has been rather quietly producing some of the top wines in Oregon.

Josh is a great guy to chat wine with. Highly knowledgable and humble, he has crafted some absolutely thrilling new wines. I was blown away with his 2018  Bergström ‘Gregory Ranch’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which has wonderful textural elements and shows amazing length. Even better is the stunning 2018 Bergström ‘Bergström Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94)which is silky smooth throughout and shows incredible aromatic and flavor range. Learn more about these sensational wines at https://www.bergstromwines.com Here are the beautiful new wine releases by Bergström.

2018 Bergström  ‘Cumberland Reserve’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 Bergström ‘Cumberland Reserve’ Pinot Noir opens with bright red fruits that meld with citrus rind and damp earth tones on this beautiful nose. The freshness and soft texture really entices as cran-pomegranate and bright red cherry flavors collide with lighter forest floor tones on the palate. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, enjoy the 2018 ‘Cumberland Reserve’ Pinot Noir over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2018 Bergström ‘La Spirale’ Pinot Noir- This is the inaugural vintage of this wine that is sourced from the Ribbon Ridge AVA, as this vineyard was planted in 2005 and was purchased by the Bergstrom family in 2018. On the nose this takes on pretty red rose water aromatics that mingle with shades of peat moss and bright red currants that all come together in the glass. The lithe acidity of the wine and silky texture really impresses. A deep core of red fruits dance with minerals and the lighter flinty and earthy undertones. With a dusting of salinity and wonderful length, this beautiful new Pinot Noir will cellar well for the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Bergström ‘Gregory Ranch’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘Gregory Ranch’ Pinot Noir is another thrilling new release by superstar winemaker Josh Bergstrom. Sourced from this Yamhill-Carlton AVA vineyard, the wine takes on exotic spices that collide with shades of damp pine needles, red currant jelly and bright guava that all come together seamlessly. The soft texture really entices as a strong astringency comes through the core of red fruits with citrus rind and damp earthy tones on the palate. Smooth, with wonderful length, the 2018 ‘Gregory Ranch’ will have another decade or more of cellaring left. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Bergström ‘Silice’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 Bergström ‘Silice’ Pinot Noir is another silky wine by this storied estate. Bright red fruits connect with wild blackberry and peat moss and smoky tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is plush with a silky texture and wonderful freshness. Showing good weight with its dense core of red currant, guava and red raspberry cordial flavors, this outstanding new Pinot Noir will have a long life ahead of it — and is almost impossible to not savor in its youth. Give this a 1-2 hour decant if enjoying in its nascent phase. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Bergström ‘Le Pre Du Col Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from the Ribbon Ridge AVA, this wine starts off with lovely damp earth tones with shades of white pepper and wild blackberry coulis that all take shape in the glass. The palate is silky smooth as the exceedingly long finish creates a lingering effect. Chewy, round and generous, this outstanding new Pinot Noir will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Bergström ‘Hope Well’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Hope Well Vineyard’ is located in the Eola-Amity Hills Vineyard, as this beautiful wine shows lovely blood orange zest aromatics woven together with red currants, and smoky and damp earth tones on this complex nose. The palate is both bright and plush, showing a lithe sense of minerality and silky texture. The long, lingering finish truly accentuates this fantastic bottling. While wonderful to savor in its youth, the 2018 ‘Hope Wells’ will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2035- 93

2018 Bergström ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Josh Bergström’s namesake vineyard is located in the Dundee Hills AVA, as this higher elevation site was first planted in 1999. Once in the glass this reveals layers of bright red fruits that are woven together with peat moss and Mandarin orange rind tones that all meld together in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, showing both a wonderful brightness and outstanding sense of texture. Bright red cherry and red raspberry dance with the minerals and smoky, earthy undertones of the wine. Great to enjoy right now, the 2018 Bergstrom ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will enjoy an exceedingly long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2035- 94

Walla Walla Wine Month

Friends, April 1st marks the start Walla Walla Wine Month. Cheers to the many beautiful faces of Walla Walla wine. Once this pandemic has been cleared, please make time in your calendar to visit this very special part of the world, filled with world class wineries and even better people behind the wines 🍇🔥 @wwvalleywine

Canvasback

Today on WWB we share a great producer of Cabernet Sauvignon on Red Mountain. I have been really impressed with the Canvasback wines since the winery’s inception, created in 2011 Duckhorn pioneers Dan and Margaret Duckhron. Now producing a larger range of wines, Canvasback utilizes the vineyard management talents of Dick Boushey and winemaking abilities of Brian Rudin in creating rich and layered Washington Cabernet Sauvignon. Canvasback sources from some of Washington’s great vineyards such as the grapes from some of Red Mountain’s most acclaimed vineyards, including Klipsun, La Coye, Shaw and Quintessence Vineyards. Canvasback crafts their ‘Grand Passage’ Cabernet Sauvignon, entirely sourced from Red Mountain and also has a relatively new estate vineyard, the Longwinds Vineyard, on Red Mountain right above Col Solare. The Longwinds Vineyard was planted in 2013 and has 13.5 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon and 4.5 acres of Merlot, with the Cabernet grown in the rockier, exposed soils at the top of the vineyard, and the Merlot grown near the bottom, where the soils have higher water-holding capacity. 

Brian Rudin is at the Canvasback helm, and is originally from Eastern Washington. Having worked for, Walla Walla stalwart L’Ecole No. 41, Brian served as head winemaker for four years at Cadaretta and Buried Cane before coming to Canvasback in 2014. The new wines from Canvasback were downright awesome across the board. I loved the new 2016 Canvasback ‘Grand Passage’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 93) which is a dense, masterful Cabernet Sauvignon that is drinking marvelously in its youth and has a long way to go in the cellar. Learn more about these great new wines at https://www.canvasbackwine.com Here are the beautiful new Cabernet Sauvignon releases by Canvasback. 

2016 Canvasback ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 Canvasback ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a really good effort by the talented Brian Rudin of Canvasback. Rich dark cherry compote with anise and exotic spices and herbal undertone aromatics meld in the glass. The silky texture really entices. Rich and layered with gobs of dark fruits and a good mineral backbone greets you on the palate. Refined yet massive, this beautiful wine will cellar well for the next fifteen years. Drink 2020-2045- 92

2016 Canvasback ‘Red Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Red Mountain AVA, the Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc that was largely aged in natural oak before bottling. Forward dark fruits with espresso tones combine on this decadent nose. The palate is dense, delivering straightforward dark fruit flavors with tobacco leaf and Turkish coffee tones. Drink 2020-2032- 91

2016 Canvasback ‘Ciel du Cheval Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Ciel du Cheval Vineyard’ is one of Red Mountain’s storied sites for Bordeaux varietals. Showing no aromatic restraint, this opens with copious dark fruits that are woven together with sagebrush and tobacco tones on this expressive bouquet. The palate is dense and focused, with a bright acidity that accompanies the layers of dark fruit flavors. Fantastic now, the 2016 ‘Ciel du Cheval Vineyard’ Cabernet will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 92

2016 Canvasback ‘Grand Passage’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 Canvasback ‘Grand Passage’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a great new blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot that was stored in French oak (80% new) prior to bottling. Deep creme de cassis, tar and anise aromas fill the glass. The palate has a silky texture and wonderful sense of balance, showing a nice purity of fruit. Copious dark fruits dance with black licorice and chocolate covered espresso bean flavors. Fabulous now, this expressive effort will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2035- 93

AniChe Cellars

As we bid adieu to what was highly unusual but also great Washington Wine Month we share to you one of the more unique houses in the state, AniChe Cellars. A small family winery located in the Columbia River Gorge, AniChe focuses on varietal blends that include rarely planted Italian varietals like Dolcetto, Barbera and Zinfandel (Primativo). The wines all have good richness and a really good tension that runs through their veins. I first tried these wines several years ago at a London wine event and was really impressed with how Zinfandel can be expressed in our state. AniChe sources from a host of Washington AVAs including their home Columbia Gorge AVA.

Anais Mera, Rachael Horn and Lisa Wiseman all form a killer winemaking team. They have crafted some beautiful new wines which were seriously good across the board. I loved the new 2018 AniChe Cellars ‘Cobweb’ Sparkling Wine (WWB, 90) made from Chenin Blanc grapes, as this carries a very old-world personality in this highly novel new bottling. Very Bordeaux Blanc, the 2017 AniChe Cellars ‘No. 5’ White Wine (WWB, 92) is one of the best Washington Bordeaux style white wines that I have sampled over the past year. This is a must buy for those who love great Bordeaux Blanc. Learn more about this exciting small Washington winery at 

2018 AniChe Cellars ‘Cobweb’ Sparkling Wine- Made from Chenin Blanc grapes, the ‘Cobweb’ spins lighter flinty and musty aromas that combine with bright pear and orang blossom tones that take shape in the glass. Once on the mouth you are greeted with a kiss of sweetness that mingles with the bright sense of minerality and light vein of salinity that runs through the core of orchard fruits. This is not only really novel but remarkably delicious stuff. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2017 AniChe Cellars ‘No. 5’ White Wine- Fermented in clay amphora, this Bordeaux style white wine is an equal blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Honeysuckle, beeswax and shades of ripe pear all enter the fray aromatically. The soft, creamy texture entices, as does the exceedingly long finish that lasts for nearly a minute long on the tongue. Showing a great combination of poise and weight, this gorgeous wine will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2018 AniChe Cellars ‘Lizzy’ White Wine- The ‘Lizzy’ is a blend of mainly Roussanne (70%) with the reminder Marsanne both sourced from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Bright apricot with green papaya and shades of nutmeg infused Pazzaz apple all come together brilliantly on the nose. Slightly sweet, this has good acidity to back up the sweetened orchard fruit flavors. The soft texture and length really impresses. Drink 2020-2026- 90

2018 AniChe Cellars ‘Bombadil’ White Wine- The ‘Bombadil’ is a blend of 80% Grenache Blanc with a small portion of Picpoul blended in. Light Japanese pear and cut grass with white flowers all march in harmony aromatically. The freshness and verve of the wine is outstanding as bright green apple, sourdough bread and unripe honeydew melon flavors all collide with gobs of minerals backing things up. The flurry of freshness makes the drum beat faster. Drink 2020-2026- 91

2017 AniChe Cellars ‘Sirius’ Red Wine- A one of a kind Washington wine made from mostly Barbera with smaller parts Zinfandel and Dolcetto, this Horse Heaven Hills bottling opens with briar notes alongside wild strawberry and suggestions of brandy soaked red cherry that combine on the nose. Slightly sweet but well-balanced, the wine delivers straightforward red fruit flavors with hints of milk chocolate covered dates alongside a good acid backbone. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 AniChe Cellars ‘Moth Love’ Red Wine- The ‘Moth Love’ combines Syrah (57%) with Mourvedre (19%) and Grenache (24%), as this wine was sourced from the Rattlesnake Hills AVA. Sandalwood tones are woven together with smoked meats, leather and a core of dark fruits aromatically. The soft, generous texture is truly lovely. Black tea, blackberry cobbler and mocha flavors mingle with the smoky and earthy undertones. Showing good weight and minerality this wine will cellar well for another five to seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2016 AniChe Cellars ‘The Artful Dodger’ Red Wine- A blend of mainly Syrah and Grenache, ‘The Artful Dodger’ shows lovely damp earth and bacon fat tones that collide with black tea and loganberry preserves on this expressive nose. The combination of verve and texture is gorgeous. Medium to full-bodied red fruits dance with the smoky and earthy undertones. Every bit outstanding, enjoy this fantastic, flat out delicious, Rhone style wine over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2015 AniChe Cellars ‘Persephone’ Red Wine- The ‘Persephone’ is an intriguing blend of Malbec (40%) and equal parts Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is full-bodied with wonderful richness and texture across generous red and dark fruits with hints of dark chocolate shavings. Showing a good combination of poise and viscosity, this great new Bordeaux style wine will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2028- 91

2015 AniChe Cellars ‘Goat Boy’ Red Wine- The ‘Goat Boy’ is a Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot heavy wine that shows deep chocolate and sagebrush aromatics that entice. Once on the mouth, generous layers of dark fruits invade as the chocolate cake tones offer an err of decadence. This generous, hedonistic Bordeaux style wine is seriously good in its youth and will provide drinking enjoyment for at least another eight to ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2015 AniChe Cellars ‘Tyger Tyger’ Red Wine- The ‘Tyger Tyger’ red wine is named after a famed William Blake poem. Merlot and Petit Verdot dominant, the intense black fruits with chocolate, sagebrush and black olive tapenade tones really entice. Dense and intense, yet showing a good mineral backbone, the ‘Tyger Tyger’ is gorgeous in its youth and will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Goldeneye

One of the great Mendocino producers of Pinot Noir, Goldeneye is a Duckhorn venture located in Philo, California in the heart of the Anderson Valley. Famed Domaine Serene winemaker Michael Fay was at Goldeneye before moving north and they rely on the talented Katey Larwood for winemaking, as I interviewed her last year. Katey has experience working harvests across the globe and began studying wine while attending school in Santa Barbara. Her wines have been really good since she has been at the helm.

I love the new releases which come from a more challenging vintage in the region. While the richness might not be as profound as their 2016 wines, the 2017 wines have brilliant terroir and show the great salinity from their close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Goldeneye has three estate vineyards (Confluence, Gowan Creek and The Narrows) in the Anderson Valley encompassing 200 vine acres and more than 20 Pinot Noir clones. 

I thought that the 2017 Goldeneye ‘Confluence Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) was downright awesome, showing good balance, good bright red fruits and a silky mouthfeel. Learn more about these outstanding Pinot Noirs at https://www.goldeneyewinery.com Here are the great new releases by Goldeneye. 

2017 Goldeneye ‘Confluence Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- This takes the lead with aromas of teaberry and citrus rind with damp earth accents round out the expressive nose. The balance and purity of fruit is lovely as ripe strawberry and cran-orange flavors collide with minerals and potting soil tones. As this opens it continues to impress with its silky texture and soft mouthfeel that adds to the enjoyment. The brightness, light salinity and intensity of the wine is lovely. Fantastic in its youth, the Narrows Vineyard Pinot Noir will show well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2017 Goldeneye ‘The Narrows Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from this great Anderson Valley vineyard, this shows lovely damp soil with huckleberry compote and shades of cinnamon infused red cherry aromatics that take shape in the glass. The balance of the wine is really good as medium to full-bodied red and dark fruit flavors provide a lasting effect. While slightly less complex than the 2017 ‘Confluence Vineyard’ bottling, it is downright delicious to savor in its youth.  2020-2030- 92

2017 Goldeneye ‘Split Rail Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The saline drenched red fruit aromatics immediately catch your attention.  Lovely sage and peat moss tones come to round out this expressive bouquet. Beautifully textured with a touch of astringency, the bright acuity really impresses with layers of red cherry and boysenberry flavors that collide with minerals and the lighter damp soil tones on the palate. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this beautiful Pinot Noir will have another decade or more ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 93

Kerloo Cellars

As another great Washington Wine Month comes to a close, we bring you one of the great wineries that is headed in Seattle. Our wineries need your help right now, and please consider supporting your favorite local wineries that have been financially impacted by the pandemic.

Ryan Crane crafts some absolutely thrilling wines. His winemaking continues to evolve over the past several years, as the releases seem to get better and better. He began his winemaking career at Animale Cellars in Seattle, and then later trained under Marie-Eve Gilla at Forgeron Cellars while completing his degree in Enology and Viticulture at Walla Walla Community College.

I absolutely love the 2019 Kerloo Cellars ‘Lonesome Springs Ranch’ Rose (WWB, 91) which has brilliant tension and delicate red fruit flavors, with a silky texture. This wine is a superb value. An even better value for a mere $15.00 is the 2018 SoDo Cellars ‘GSM’ Red Wine (WWB, 91) which has awesome freshness and bright red fruits with a silky mouthfeel. 

Learn more about this great SoDo winery at www.kerloocellars.com. Here are the great new releases by the talented Ryan Crane and his Kerloo Cellars.

2019 Kerloo Cellars ‘Lonesome Springs Ranch’ Rose- The 2019 Kerloo Cellars ‘Lonesome Springs Ranch’ Rose is a blend of equal parts Mouvedre and Grenache. A pretty pale pink ones in the glass, the Rose shows off shades of rose water and blood orange that collide with lighter melon tones aromatically. The palate has marvelous freshness with delicate red fruits that dance with the wonderful sense of minerality. This is Washington meeting Bandol. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Kerloo Cellars ‘Blue Mountain Vineyard’ Grenache Blanc- Over the years Ryan Crane has secured the accolade of being one of the top winemakers for this unique Rhone varietal. He has been sourcing from this top notch Walla Walla vineyard for several years. The prototypical melon tones jump out of the glass with the shades of green papaya and mango on this exotic nose. The palate has a kiss of sweetness with bright melon tones that collide with minerals, damp stone and Pink Lady apple flavors. This is sensational in its youth and really needs a hot summer day (not March in Seattle). Drink 2020-2025- 92

2018 SoDo Cellars ‘GSM’ Red Wine- For a mere fifteen dollars, Ryan Crane has crafted a seriously good wine that punches above his weight class. Very pretty red fruits dance with shades of rose water and blood orange zest on this evocative nose. The palate has a sterling sense of minerality and a seriously good sense of balance. While not particularly big, the elegance of the perfumed and downright juicy red fruits and silky mouthfeel really shines through. With good length, this is a complete wine by Kerloo as I can see this cellaring well for five to seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2018 Kerloo Cellars ‘Black Rock Vineyard’ Syrah- The ‘Black Rock Vineyard’ is a cooler site  located in the Yakima Valley. A 6% Viogner co-ferment was given to this wine that shines with its high-toned citrus rind and guava tones, while the core of smoked pork shoulder and blackberry jam all create some gorgeous aromatic range. The tension of the wine truly entices and layers of dark fruit deftly combine with more subtle milk chocolate, Hoisin sauce and creosote tones. Seriously good in its youth, the 2018 ‘Black Rock Vineyard’ Syrah will have another decade ahead of it. This wine is a perfect example of how Ryan Crane is crafting some of the most exciting wines made in this state. Drink 2020-2030- 93

Baer Winery

Moving towards the end of a great Washington Wine Month we share one of the great boutique producers out of Woodinville. Baer winery was founded by the late Lance Baer, who sadly passed away at age 39. Since that time Lisa Baer has been running the show and doing a great job. Of course it was more than ten years ago that Baer made history by having their ‘Ursa’ red wine be named the #6 wine on the 2008 Wine Spectator Top 100.This accolade really brought national attention to this small winery. 

On the weekend Baer is a great place to visit, located in the Woodinville in the warehouse district. Baer has become synonymous with brilliantly capturing the art of blending. Head winemaker Erica Orr is one of the state’s great winemakers. Her wines are structured and Bordelaise, yet utilize the richness of each vintage. The recent releases come from the 2016 vintage which was another warm vintage that didn’t quite see the level of head spikes that 2015 was blessed (or cursed) with. Erica crafts her wines with some killer fruit — the widely acclaimed Stillwater Creek vineyard. This vineyard tends to have a slightly cooler climate than most in the Columbia Valley. Look for their 2016 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine (WWB, 93) which has marvelous richness and poise. After a little decant, this thing is singing. Similarly excellent was the 2014 ‘Star] (WWB, 94) which is one of the best Washington Merlots that I have sampled in the past year. Learn more about this fantastic Woodinville winery at baerwinery.com Here are the great new releases by Baer.

2016 Baer ‘Callisto’ Red Wine-The 2016 Baer ‘Callisto’ is a fabulous blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions Syrah, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Needing a one hour decent to fully be singing, this opens with an aromatic core of red fruits that are wrapped around by toasty oak and chocolate tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate has good freshness and purity of fruit. Milk chocolate covered red cherry, coffee grounds and shades of sagebrush all collide on the palate. Fantastic now, the ‘Callisto’ will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 20200-2032- 92

2016 Baer ‘Star’ Merlot- This great 100% Merlot wine was entirely sourced from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard. Not really needing a decant at tall, the ‘Star; is soft, round and generous, as the Merlot yields a silky, pillowy mouthfeel that entices. A light dusting of salinity falls upon a deep core of red fruits with milk chocolate and sagebrush undertones. Outstanding in its youth, the highly elegant 2016 ‘Star’ will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2016 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Ursa’ is a simply gorgeous blend of 38% Merlot and 38% Cabernet Franc with 22% Cabernet Sauvignon and just a touch of Malbec. Once on the nose the leafy and savory tones truly entice alongside shades of blackberry cobbler that all mingle in the glass. The palate has a soft mouthfeel and a seamless quality that makes this glide across the mid-palate. Elegant and enticing to enjoy in its nascent phase, the 2016 ‘Ursa’ will cellar well for the next ten to fifteen years. Just be sure to give this a one to two hour decant if enjoying right now. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2016 Baer ‘Stillwater Creek Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- This unique, single vineyard bottling shows very pretty red rose petal and violet tones alongside ripe red and dark fruits on this expressive nose. The palate is impeccably balanced, showing both bright acidity and good viscosity. Mocha, sweet pipe tobacco, leather and ripe wild blackberry flavors all come together with a bright sense of minerality. The earthy undertones really complement the rich fruits, as this great new wine will have a long life in the cellar. Give this a two hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2016 Baer ‘Arctos’ Red Wine- The ‘Arctos’ is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine that is downright awesome to enjoy right now. Following a one hour decant, the ‘Arctos’ takes the lead with gorgeous Asian spices that combine with, red bell pepper and creme de cassis aromatics that take shape in the glass. The soft mouthfeel is lovely. Red bell pepper, anise, creme de cassis and shades of blackberry cobbler all mingle together on the palate. The elegance of the wine is apparent. While fantastic to enjoy now, the 2016 ‘Arctos’ will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 93 

Nyetimber

Today we make the jaunt across the pond to share one of the great producers of British Sparkling Wine. It is remarkable that Nyetimber have been making sparkling wines for more than thirty years. All estate sourced, Nyetimber crafts their wines from chalky soils that resemble those of Champagne. Their vineyards in Sussex, Hampshire and Kent are surrounded by natural habitats – from native broadleaved woodlands which are managed and replanted, as well as wildflower meadows in various locations at both the Tillington and Manor vineyards that provide food and nesting places for birds and insects. The vineyard has fifty acres of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, the classic varieties of the Champagne region, which are planted on gentle south-facing slopes of greensand soil. Roughly 100,000 vines are planted close together and trained on a single guyot system to create a unique microclimate and distinctive fruit characteristics. Several different clones and rootstocks are planted which add complexity to the wines.

Roughly 30% of the total Nyetimber estate is natural ‘non-productive’ hedgerows, windbreaks, woods, gardens, ponds and meadows. They create wildlife corridors for larger fauna, and where possible, the vineyard team uses sonar, kites and bird bangers as a gentle way of preventing damage to the fruit. Head winemaker Cherie Spriggs, has a illustrious past, including being named ‘Sparkling Winemaker of the Year’ at the 2018 International Wine Challenge. She has crafted some beautiful new sparkling wines.

NV Nyetimer ‘Cuvee Cherie’ Sparkling Wine- Named after the winemaker Cherie Spriggs, this 100% Chardonnay, demi-sec wine was given quite a bit of dosage (38G/L). The nose has sweetened French bread and suggestions of lemon drop aroma that all build in the glass. The palate has really good freshness with medium-sweet orchard fruits with lighter citrus rind and mineral accents. While this carries quite a bit of sweetness, the bright acidity carries the wine. Drink 2020-2025- 90

NV Nyetimber ‘Classic Cuvee’ Sparkling Wine- The ‘Classic Cuvee’ is a blend of mainly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with a small portion of Pinot Meunier blended in. The wine was aged form more than three years before disgorgement. Showing off its deep hue, this opens with green papaya and Macadamia nut that meld with the ripe orchard fruits on this expressive bouquet. The palate has really good richness and a silky mousse. The textural elements of the wine really entice. Gorgeous to enjoy right now, this will cellar well for the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

NV Nyetimber ‘Brut Rose’ Sparkling WIne- The NV Nyetimber ‘Brut Rose’ is another glorious bottling from this killer estate. On the nose this takes on shades of cran-pomegranate with blood orange zest and lighter wild mushroom tones that all collide aromatically. The freshness and verve of the wine is seriously good as layers of bright red fruits dance with minerals, orange rind and the damp earthy undertones. The is simply fantastic stuff to savor right now as this will provide drinking enjoyment for a decade to come. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2010 Nyetimber ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- A truly gorgeous effort, the 2010 ‘Blanc de Blancs’ stands tall amongst the great of British Wines that I have ever sampled. Aged for five years on the lees prior to disgorgement, this takes the lead with  shades of damp earth that collide with the bright citrus zest infused sourdough bread tones that all mingle together in the glass. citrus rind and baking spice aromatics taking shape in the glass. Once on the mouth, the wine unveils layers of bright citrus fruit flavors that mingle with shades of peat moss and Japanese pear. The silky mousse truly entices while the brightness of the wine invigorates your senses. Now at the ten year mark the 2010 Nyetimber ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine is truly singing and will shine on for more than a decade to come.  Drink 2020-2032- 93

Domaine Serene

Sitting with head winemaker Michael Fay I could feel the confidence brimming as he spoke. ‘I think these are seriously good wines,’ Michael said, when asked about the new 2017 releases. ‘They have really good texture but are also rich. . . I think you’re gonna like these’ he contended. It is hard to believe that more than thirty years ago Domaine Serene was founded by Dundee Hills pioneers Grace and Ken Evenstad, One of the most beautiful wineries in the Pacific Northwest, Domaine Serene is an absolute must visit for any Oregon wine lover. I fondly recall my first visit to Domaine Serene in 2002 and was absolutely blown away not only with the sweeping views of the Willamette Valley but the stunning wines. 

I have admired the wines made by Michael Fay for quite some time, as he made some downright awesome wines for Goldeneye before being hired by Domaine Serene as head winemaker. Michael does a masterful job with crafting his Pinot Noirs which come from another warm vintage. One of the consistently great Oregon Pinot Noirs, the 2017 ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 95) shows a massive core of bright red and dark fruits with a downright sexy mouthfeel. The ’17 ‘Evenstad Reserve’ is a heavyhitter of a wine that is to be bought by the case. Even better is the 2017 Domaine Serene ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 96) showing incredible finesse and a silky mouthfeel. This thing is marvelous to enjoy after a two hour decant and will be exceedingly long-lived. I know I might sound a bit redundant, but Domaine Serene has done it again. Learn more about this famed Oregon estate at http://domaineserene.com/ Here are the incredible new release wines by Domaine Serene.

NV Domaine Serene ‘XII’ Rose- Always made as a multi-vintage wine, the ‘XII’ starts off with pretty rose water and watermelon aromas that meld with the lighter citrus rind and flinty undertones of the wine. Bright, yet not shy with its silky texture, the delicate red fruits dance with shades of nectarine skin and Gravenstein apple flavors. Truly needing a warm summer day, the Domaine Serene ‘XII’ Rose is a serious, stand alone, effort that will be best enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Cote Sud’ Chardonnay- Located high atop the estate property located in the Dundee Hills, the 2017 ‘Cote Sud’ Chardonnay shows off lovely flinty aromatics that mingle with lemon zest, kumquat and green apple tones that all mingle together in the glass. The palate is plush, showing a seamless texture and a soft mouthfeel that melds marvelously with the bright minerality of the wine and deep core of citrus and orchard fruits. The length and generous finish of the wine truly accentuates the drinking enjoyment. Fantastic to savor now, this beautiful wine will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir is another monumental release from this storied Dundee Hills estate. Needing a one hour decant to fully develop, the wine slowly unveils red currant and nutmeg infused kirsch aromatics that meld with the damp earth and black truffle shaving aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is round and generous, creating a seamless quality that runs through the core of the wine. Deep red and dark fruits dance with citrus rind, forest floor and a light dusting of salted cocoa powder that meld together on the palate. The combination of length, range, weight and acidity brings you back to the glass for more hedonistic delight. Truly stunning in its youth, the 2017 ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir is up there with the best ever releases of its kind. Domaine Serene has done it again. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Two Barns Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 Domaine Serene ‘Two Barns Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is an outstanding new wine from this historic estate. Sourced from this 215 acre vineyard first planted in 2000. Needing an hour decent to fully be expressive, the wine is slowly awakened with a deep core of red cherry candy and guava puree aromas that meld with the lovely high-toned citrus rind and baking spice aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is dense and plush, showing a silky mouthfeel land a wonderful elegance. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this beautifully textured effort will provide drinking enjoyment for decades to come. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Abbey Oaks Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The fantastic 2017 ‘Abbey Oaks Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is another fantastic release from this famed Oregon winery. Sourced from this Yamhill-Carlton AVA vineyard, this opens with ripe kirsch and huckleberry aromas that meld with shades of peat moss and forest floor with a dusting of white truffle that all come together in the glass. The freshness and verve of the wine is every bit outstanding with a rich core of dark fruits, wild mushroom and damp earthy tones. This is fantastic to enjoy in its youth and will continue to drink well for fifteen or more years to come. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Cote Sud’ Pinot Noir- The every bit outstanding 2017 ‘Cote Sud’ Pinot Noir is another thrilling new bottling from this great, dry-farmed, vineyard, set on Jory soils and perched high in the Dundee Hills AVA. Dark berry aromas — huckleberry and boysenberry tones — come alive in the glass alongside the lighter peat moss tones that meld in the glass. The palate is plush, showing good weight and a plush, seamless texture that effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Hints of tobacco leaf and damp earth connect with the deep core of wild blackberry compote and lighter orange rind tones that sing in harmony on the palate. Fantastic to savor now, there 2017 Domaine Serene ‘Cote Sud’ Pinot Noir will give drinking pleasure for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Triple S Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Triple S Vineyard’ is a small, 4 acre parcel located in the Dundee Hills, planted to Dijon and Pommard Pinot Noir clones. Needing a one hour decant to fully evolve, the wine becomes aroused, slowly unveiling red currants and underbrush aromas that combine with salted orange rind and a dusting of volcanic earth that all take shape in the glass. The palate is dense and wonderfully earthy, with peat moss and forest floor flavors that meld with the core of dark fruits and a touch of milk chocolate. Showing great acidity and a seamless texture, this outstanding new bottling will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Domaine Serene ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 Domaine Serene ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is a stunning new wine by this talented winemaking team led by Michael Fay. Sourced from this dry-farmed vineyard set on Jory soils, the ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir opens with sour kirsch and peat moss tones that connect with the cran-pomegranate and blood orange zest aromatics that all mingle in the glass. The palate is plush and dense, providing a silky mouthfeel and gorgeous sense of texture. Ripe red and dark fruits collide with minerals, peat moss and shades of black truffle crudo on the palate. Gorgeous, round and generous to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will be exceedingly long lived. Be sure to give this at least an hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2040- 96

Mirror Napa Valley

One of the storied names in Seattle sports history, Rick Mirer is a former Seattle Seahawk quarterback that is now applying his trade in Napa, producing brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon wines. One of the most illustrious high school quarterbacks in Indiana state history, Mirer earned the Academy of Achievement Award as the top high school football player in the country in 1989, as well as the Atlanta Touchdown Club's Bobby Dodd Award as the nation's best high school quarterback. At Notre Dame, Mirer was just as good, winning three bowl games and accounting for more points running and throwing (350) than any other player in Notre Dame history. 

The Seattle Seahawks were a very poor team when they drafted Mirer in 1993. Still, Mirer finished his rookie season 5th in the AFC with 274 completions and 2833 yards and was AFC Rookie of the Year by United Press International. Mirer’s remaining seasons were not as successful in Seattle, being set behind an abysmal offensive line. Having gone to those games in the 1980s, all of us in the stands knew that Mirer was really not given a fair chance with such poor protection. Eventually traded to the Chicago Bears in 1997, Mirer continued to play as a backup quarterback until 2004. 

Close friends with Drew Bledsoe, and drafted right behind him in 1993, Mirer admits that his friendship with Bledsoe helped lead him to start Mirror Napa Valley. Bledsoe and Mirer even took off-season­ vacation with their wives to Napa Valley. During the off-season they would also try to stump each other with wines from Port or Brunello di Montalcino. It made sense that both quarterbacks would start their wineries post-football. While playing for the Raiders and 49ers Rick became even more passionate for wine, being so close to Napa Valley. Finally in 2008 Rick started Mirror Napa Valley, utilizing the winemaking talents of Kirk Venge, formerly of Mumm Napa Valley. Kirk serves as winemaker for several great Napa wineries including B Cellars, Bacio Divino Cellars, Beau Vigne, Entrepreneur Wines, and Hunnicutt Wines. The new releases by Mirror were gorgeous. Check out the 2016 Mirror Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 92) which has great depth and concetnration, with classic herbal tones. Even better is the 2016 Mirror ‘Howell Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 94) which is a dense and massive treat, with a great acid backbone and great viscosity. For more about Rick Mirer’s great winery go to https://www.mirrorwine.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Mirror Napa Valley.

2016 Mirror Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Moulds Vineyard & Stagecoach Vineyards, the 2016 Mirror Cabernet Sauvignon opens with cassis and red bell pepper tones, with flinty and smoky accents that entice. The palate has good freshness and verve, with a lovely viscosity. Blackberry cobbler, mocha and creme de cassis flavors all marvelously come together alongside the vibrant mineral backbone. Outstanding in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well for the next two decades. Drink 2020-2035- 92

2016 Mirror ‘Howell Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Howell Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from the Cimarossa Vineyard which is set at more than 1500 feet. This limited production bottling was aged for twenty nine months in 100% new French oak prior to bottling. The plush, hedonistic aromas of creme de cassis, anise and blackberry compote bring you back to the glass for more delight. The palate has a silky texture and wonderful refinement. While obviously rich, the elegance of the wine cannot be overstated. Intense dark fruits meld with chocolate cake, creme de cassis, anise and exotic spices on the palate. Fantastic to savor in its youth, the ‘Howell Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon will be exceedingly long lived. Drink 2020-2040- 94

De Ponte Cellars

For many years iI have visited one of the outstanding producers set in the Dundee Hills.During my visit visit back in 2007 I was greeted relaxed atmosphere to taste their wines, De Ponte produces a range of great Pinot Noir bottling and one of the best Melon de Bourgogne wines in North America, their ‘D.F.B.’ First started by the Baldwin family in 1999, De Ponte is named after the matriarch of the Baldwin family, Shirley Baldwin.  De Ponte, her maiden name which is of Portuguese origin, honors her father who grew grapes and made his own wine in California's San Joaquin Valley. De Ponte released its first Pinot Noir in 2001, as it leans on the talented Isabelle Dutartre for all winemaking. Dutartre is originally from Burgundy in France and you will find that no surprise when you taste these highly Burgundian wines. Vines planted are set on ancient volcanic soils with clay loam influence. 

The new wines by Dutartre were awesome across the board. I loved the new 2018 De Ponte ‘Dundee Hills’ Chardonnay (WWB, 92) which shows great Burgundian, earthy tones and a magical mouthfeel. I loved the new 2017 De Ponte ’Baldwin Reserve’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which has lovely volcanic terroir alongside a core of deep dark fruits and subtle earthy tones Learn more about these outstanding wines at https://www.depontecellars.com Here are the exciting new releasees by De Ponte.

2018 Clay Hill Chardonnay- The Clay Hill Chardonnay shows good brightness and intensity with medium-bodied orchard fruit and lemon zest flavors with lighter buttered French bread accents. This is seriously good stuff for the price. 

2018 De Ponte ‘Dundee Hills’ Chardonnay-The De Ponte Chardonnay opens with pear and nutmeg accents that combine with shades of salted Macadamia nut and brioche tones that take shape in the glass. The palate has great freshness and verve with juicy melon and Gala apple flavors that combine with the sourdough bread and greats sense of minerality. This is just an awesome effort by De Ponte. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 De Ponte ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir shows good range from cola and peat moss tones that collide with a good range of dark fruits and citrus rind accents. The palate has good freshness and balance with a deep core of huckleberry and wild blackberry flavors alongside some lighter earthy undertones. This is just an awesome new entry level wine by De Ponte. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2017 De Ponte ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir by De Ponte is a thrilling new wine by this storied Dundee Hills estate. Deeply perfumed and enticing, the wine leads with its rich core of dark fruits with damp earth, black tea and peat moss tones that all mingle in the glass. The palate has a great combination of freshness and weight with rich blackberry cobbler, underbrush, teaberry and orange zest flavors alongside shades of wild mushroom. Showing great weight and balance, the ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2017 De Ponte ‘Lonesome Rock Ranch’ Pinot Noir- The ’Lonesome Rock Ranch’ is a rocky soiled, 30-acre vineyard located near the Coastal Range. The stony terroir aromatically is downright awesome as red cherry and red raspberry aromas dance with the earthy tones. The palate shows great freshness and a light dusting of salinity that adds to the enjoyment. Damp earth and peat moss tones collide with copious minerals and bright red fruits with cran-orange accents on the palate. Enjoy this great effort over the next decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2017 De Ponte ‘Baldwin Family Reserve’ Pinot Noir- This wine is named after Shirley Baldwin, the who is the matriarch of the Baldwin family. Her father, Manuel de Ponte, made his own wine out of grapes he planted in California's San Joaquin Valley. This shows a deep core with layers of damp earth that meld with wild blackberry and orange rind that all take place in the glass. The palate has marvelous volcanic terroir with deep black tea and blackberry flavors that combine with the lighter citrus rind and damp earthy tones of the wine. Truly fantastic now, the 2017 ‘Baldwin Reserve’ Pinot Noir will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 93

Migration

Most people might not know that the Migration line was created back in 2001 by Duckhorn, and it wasn’t until 2008 that Migration made Chardonnay. A few years ago I tried the Migration lineup and I was struck by the lack of balance in some of the wines. Chardonnays were too cloying, using too much oak and they really didn’t show that well. Such is not the case with the new wines by Migration, that are really outstanding across the board.

Formerly with Decoy, another Duckhorn-owned winery, Dana Epperson has been head winemaker at Migration since 2017. Her new release wines were really good, showing excellent range and texture. Sourced from their estate vineyard in the Russian River Valley, the 2018 Migration ‘Running Creek Vineyard’ Chardonnay (WWB, 92) shows wonderful length and viscosity. Even better is the 2018 Migration ‘Charles Heintz VIneyard’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which has incredible salinity and balance with great richness. Learn more about these excellent new wines at https://www.migrationwines.com Here are the great new wines by Migration. 

NV Migration Rose Sparkling Wine- The NV Migration Rose Sparkling Wine is their soiree into making bubbles. Pretty rose petals aromas meld with the watermelon and red cherry candy aromatics that take shape in the glass. The soft, delicate mousse entices, as lighter red fruits dance with shades of melon and wet stone on the palate. This is serious stuff that will be best enjoyed in its youth. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2018 Migration ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Sourced from this acclaimed property first planted in 1973, the 2018 2018 Migration ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard’ Chardonnay shows off pineapple and shades of nutmeg infused Challah bread on the nose. The palate is fresh with a polished texture and silky elegance. Bright lemon zest, sourdough bread and vanilla cream flavors all combine on the palate.This is delightful now and will provide drinking enjoyment for the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2018 Migration ‘Dierberg Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Located in the Santa Maria Valley, the Dierberg is set on sandy soils and has a great marine influence from the Pacific Ocean. On the nose this shows salted praline and Meyer lemon zest tones that mingle with shades of butterscotch on this impressive nose. The palate is rich and layered with wonderful Meyer lemon cream and tropical fruit flavors. The length and weight of the wine is fantastic. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2018 Migration ‘Running Creek Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Located in the Russian River Valley, the ‘Running Creek Vineyard’ is a cooler site owned by Duckhorn. Butterscotch and exotic spices combine with ripe mango and pineapple on this expressive nose. The palate has beautiful length and balance with a good sense of viscosity. Fantastic to enjoy now, the wine will cellar well over the next decade, picking up tertiary tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2018 Migration ‘Charles Heintz Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The ‘Charles Heintz Vnieyard’ is located in the Green Valley which is slightly inland from the Pacific Ocean, set at 900 feet. Ripe bananas foster and pineapple tones combine with nutmeg infused Challah bread on the expansive nose. The palate has a silky mouthfeel that makes it nearly impossible to resist. At the crescendo lies the gorgeous, near minute-long finish. This is truly a gorgeous showing by Migration. Drink 2020-2030- 93

Big Table Farm

‘I think these were some really good wines,’ remarked Brian Marcy, who talked about the 2018 vintage in Oregon. As we sat together during the holidays, I was eager to get his insights on what most Oregon winemakers are saying is another seriously good vintage, continuing the glorious run since 2014. ‘I like the balance of the wines,’ Brian explained, ‘But they also have good richness.’  

I was one of the first writers to feature one of the outstanding producer of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley. Clare and Brian were previously working in Napa, as Brian made some glorious Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah at Neyers prior to coming to the Willamette Valley. He works closely in winemaking with his uber-talented wife, Clare Carver, who is also a world-class artist. Clare’s gorgeous art appears on all Big Table Farm bottles as she goes through the painstaking process of importing her paper from Italy and hand labeling all bottles, as she handles all of the business aspects of Big Table Farm. I have been blown away with these labels since I first tried these wines more than five years ago which marvelously complement the uniqueness of the wines they produce.

Clare and Brian has gained a sterling reputation for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay bottlings which are now appearing on fine dining lists from Le Pigeon in Portland to Eleven Madison Park in New York City. I was blown away with their new 2018 Big Table Farm ‘Wild Bee’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which has a stunning mouthfeel and texture, showing seriously good range. Even better is their downright thrilling 2018 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg' Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 95) which deftly walks the tight rope between richness and balance, showing scintillating range. Learn more about these special wines at http://bigtablefarm.com Here are the thrilling new wines by Big Table Farm.

2018 Big Table Farm ‘Wild Bee’ Chardonnay- The ‘Wild Bee’ is formerly the Big Table Farm ‘Willamette Valley’ bottling as they have steadily increasing the quantity of this wine, now up to more than 800 cases. Largely aged in used French oak, this starts off with Challah bread and nutmeg tones that combine with suggestions of Pink Lady apple and starfruit that all take shape in the glass. The palate has wonderful brightness and a silky texture. Layered and rich, wait for the exceedingly long and generous finish. Novel and every bit outstanding, this is another sensational effort by the talented Brian Marcy. A delight to savor in its youth, this great new wine will cellar well for a decade or more, picking up tertiary tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Big Table Farm ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- Big Table Farm have steadily been increasing their production of this wine, now at 2500 cases, with their pigs, ‘Sam’ and ‘Rick’ pictured on the label. Despite increasing production, there is absolutely no decrease in quality of their entry level bottling that shows gorgeous aromatic range from damp earth, wild mushroom, red cherry preserve and orange rind tones that meld together in the glass. Silky, round and generous, with wonderful richness and poise, this has a silky texture that entices. Layers of cran-cherry, Mandarin orange rind, forest floor and shades of black truffle crudo all entice on the palate. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this should provide drinking enjoyment for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The gorgeous 2018 ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is another thrilling effort by superstar winemaker Brian Marcy. On the nose this entices with shades of white truffle and Hoisin sauce, alongside a rich core of red and dark fruits, giving the wine a distinctly Umami edge.  The palate is plush and generous, unveiling a seamless texture that makes this effortlessly glide once on the attack. Ripe red cherry and boysenberry flavors collide with minerals, blood orange zest, peat moss and shades of seaweed on this wonderfully expressive palate. The ‘Sunnyside Vineyard’ Pinot Noir deftly walks the tight rope between richness and balance, as this effort is best enjoyed over the next ten to fifteen years, picking up earthy tertiary tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Big Table Farm ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah- Sourced from one of the esteemed vineyards in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA, ‘The Funk Estate Vineyard’ was planted by Walla Walla wine pioneer Richard Funk who has gained national attention for his Saviah wines. Right away you are drawn to the seaweed, and Umami aromas that combine with shades of bacon fat, red currents and wild blackberry compote that all take shape in the glass. The palate has great freshness and elegance, with a silky texture. Black cherry cordial and huckleberry flavors meld with shades of black tea, anise, exotic spices, and the lovely damp earthy tones. Showing serious verve, this beautifully textured wine will have a long life ahead of it — but it is simply impossible to resist right now. I would consider enjoying this in its youth while the sterling freshness remains. Drink 2020-2030- 95

Hattingley Valley

As I walked the vineyard in the pouring rain I was amazed that this area produces wine. It was a hugely wet and damp February morning in Hampshire. My colleague and I had traveled the 90 minute trek from Central London to arrive in the British countryside. Hattingley Valley is a family owned business located in Hampshire specializing in premium English sparkling wines. Simon Robinson founded Hattingley Valley in 2008, planting Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier in his 24 hectacre vineyard (60 acres). With help from the talented Emma Rice they established their winery in 2010. Wines are fermented using a small portion of of oak barrels wit the remainder stainless steel. Winemaker Emma Rice studied at Plumpton College and has worked in winemaking from Tasmania to California. I met her for the first time more than a year ago at a conference in Oregon and I was very glad to coordinate with her my visit to Hattingley. Emma’s first release was in 2013 and they export their wines to 16 countries worldwide.

I was very impressed with the latest set of Hattingley releases. These wines show a common thread of wonderfully chalky terroir. A really good value, the NV Hattingley Valley ‘Classic Reserve’ Brut Sparkling Wine (WWB, 90) shows really good range and a racy acidity. This would make a marvelous aperitif. The best wine that I sampled was the 2014 Hattingley Valley Rose Sparkling Wine (WWB, 92) which has really good mid-palate weight and a brilliant salinity that combines with the tart red fruits. Learn more about this outstanding English producer of sparkling wine at https://www.hattingleyvalley.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Hattingley Valley.

NV Hattingley Valley ‘Classic Reserve’ Brut Sparkling Wine- Founded in 2008 by Simon and Nicola Robinson, Hattingley Valley is located in Hampshire, England and is set on chalky soils The ‘Classic Reserve’ is a blend of several vintage wines (18% reserve wines) and opens with biscuit aromas with lemon zest and shades of salted Marcona almond. The palate unveils a lovely mouthfeel as brisk acidity and salinity races through pear, wet stone and kumquat flavors. Drink 2019-2025- 90

2011 Hattingley Valley ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2011 Blanc de Blancs by Hattingley Valley shows a vibrant hue and opens with sourdough bread, kumquat and shades of forest floor that fill the nose. The palate shows good astringency and weight with bright lemon oil, nectarine rind and green apple torte flavors. Bright and lively, this racy, saline-infused Chardonnay Sparkling Wine will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 91

2014 Hattingley Valley Rose Sparkling Wine- The Hattingley Valley 2014 Rose is a seriously good blend of 60% Pinot Noir with smaller portions Pinot Meunier and Pinot Precoce. A brilliant salmon color, this opens with a bright bouquet of red currant, wild mushroom and shades of lemongrass that build on the nose. The palate shows good balance and mid-palate weight with beautiful teaberry, cran-orange and toasted brioche flavors that combine marvelously as this finished with a polished salinity. Seriously good now, this will continue to evolve over a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 92

2015 Hattingley Valley ‘Blanc de Noir’ Sparkling Wine- Enjoyed in the British Airways Concorde Room, the 2015 Hattingley Valley ‘Blanc de Noir’ Sparkling Wine is an outstanding effort from this warmer vintage in Hampshire. The richness and soft texture of the wine gives way to rich Gala apple, toasty brioche and lighter nutty and wild mushroom tones. With a lovely mousse, this is a complete wine by the talented Emma Rice. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Willamette Valley Vineyards

One of the great, historic spots in Oregon, Willamette Valley Vineyards was originally founded in 1983 by Oregon wine pioneer, Jim Bernau. Jim cleared away an old pioneer plum orchard in the Salem Hills to start his first vineyard. Over time Willamette Valley Vineyards has considerably increased their estate vineyards through partnerships like the merger with Oregon wine industry pioneer, Bill Fuller of Tualatin Vineyards (established in 1973), the O'Briens for Elton Vineyard (established in 1983) and Loeza Vineyard (planted in 2015). Willamette Valley Vineyards sources all of its Pinot Noir from their nearly 500 acres of estate vineyards.

Several years ago I had the chance to revisit their 2012 releases were outstanding across the board. A year ago I had the chance to interview their talented winemaker Joe Ibrahim, who is originally from New York and started his wine journey in Vermont. He has held several high end wine positions prior to coming to Willamette Valley Vineyards, including working for Ste. Michelle Wine Estate in Washington State, as well as Gallo Family in California where he learned about brandy distillation as a Spirits Maker and sparkling wine production as the Senior Winemaker in charge of the sparkling wine program. 

His new wines were really good across the board. I loved his 2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Dijon Clone’ Chardonnay (WWB, 92) which has marvelous richness and a downright sexy texture.  I really enjoyed the 2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) which is marvelous now in its youth and will provide bright red fruits and good acidity for a decade or more to come. Learn more about this famed Oregon winery at willamettevalleyvineyards.com. Here are the great new wines by Willamette Valley Vineyards.

2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards Rose Spakling Wine- The 2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards Rose Sparkling Wine is another great release from this historic estate. On the nose this takes on teaberry with cran-orange and suggestions of ripe guava that all mingle in the glass. The astringency suggests a highly limited amount of dosage. Bright cranberry and green apple flavors mingle with minerals and lighter earthy undertones. The soft mousse adds to the crescendo. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Dijon Clone’ Chardonnay- Deeply colored in the glass, the ‘Dijon Clone’ Chardonnay opens with roasted pineapple and toasted hazelnuts with vanilla cream tones that round out this expressive nose. The palate is full-bodied and generous with rich and layered brioche and lemon cream flavors with ripe pineapple accents. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next ten years. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir by Willamette Valley Vineyards is a blend of Dijon clones, alongside Wadenswil and Pommard. This wine was aged in 25% new French oak for nine months before bottling. Soft and beautifully balanced, the wine reveals red cherry candy and guava flavors that mingle with teaberry and lighter earthy tones on the palate. Lithe and light on its feet, this beautiful wine will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Tualatin Estate’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from a vineyard that is set in the lowlands of the Coastal Range, the 2016 ‘Tualatin Estate’ Pinot Noir shows guava and citrus rind accents that meld with the earthy aromatics of the wine. The wine has good freshness with medium-bodied red fruits that dance with minerals and shades of peat moss on the palate. Silky and showing a soft mouthfeel, this will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Signature Cuvee’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 ‘Signature Cuvee’ is an awesome new wine by the talented Joe Ibrahim. Bright and intense, this reveals a good range of red fruits with shades of orange zest, white pepper and spicy black truffle tones on the palate. Having good length and a generous texture, the ‘Signature Cuvee’ will show well for at least another ten years. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Tertulia Cellars

TerAs we continue our march through Washington Wine Month, we bring you another Walla Walla winery, Tertulia Cellars. Founded in 2005 Tertulia Cellars is surrounded by their estate Whistling Hills Vineyard, set in the foreground of the Blue Mountains. In 2008 Tertulia Cellars completed their winery. Tertulia makes some intriguing wines including a very good Carmenere. They have three tasting rooms located in Woodinville, the Willamette Valley, and at their Walla Walla winery. 

I had the chance to meet with their head winemaker, Ryan Raber, on several occasions. He has a penchant for crafting some gorgeous Rose wines and his 2019 Tertuliar Cellars Rose (WWB, 91) is every bit as good as any Rose has has crated wit its silky texture and really good range. I really loved his 2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Reserve’ Syrah (WWB, 92) which has marvelous terroir and deep dark fruit flavors with a good mineral backbone. Learn more about this Walla Walla winery at http://www.tertuliacellars.com/ Here are the new wines by Tertulia Cellars. 

2019 Tertulia Cellars Rose- The 2019 Tertulia Cellars Rose shows the lovely red cherry candy and guava tones that collide with citrus rind accents on this exciting nose. The palate has great freshness and a soft texture. The minerality and bright red fruits with orange zest and peat moss tones really entice on the palate. Needless to say, the talented Ryan Raber can make a great Rose wine. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Tertulia Cellars ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Marsanne- I have admired Marsanne wines from this exciting and dramatic vineyard which is drenched in broken basalt. The stony character of the wine really entices as does the long finish. With bight acidity and lovely lemon rind tones, this outstanding wine is best enjoyed in its youth. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Tertulia Cellars ‘Whistling Hills Vineyard’ Viognier- Sourced from the Whistling Hills Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley, this shows good freshness with lighter cantaloupe and vanilla cream flavors. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2018 Tertulia Cellars ‘Whistling Hills Vineyard’ Viognier- The 2018 Tertulia Cellars ‘Whistling Hills Vineyard’ Viognier opens with bright citrus zest with peaches and cream that fill the aromatics. The bright acidity really makes this wine sing, as the long, lemon zest and mineral-driven finish lingers. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Riviere Galets Vineyard’ Grenache- Sourced from this estate vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA, the 2017 Grenache shows light stony character with Hoisin sauce, black raspberry cordial and lighter flinty tones that round out the nose. The palate has great freshness and texture, unveiling bright citrus zest and straightforward, delicious red fruit flavors. I would enjoy this in the short-term while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Estate GSM’ Red Wine- A blend of Grenache (48%), Syrah (42%) and Mourvedre (10%), this begins with aromas of smoked pork shoulder that mingles with the black plum and spicy undertones that all connect in the glass. Soft, plush and generous, with a lush mouthfeel, the wine delivers red raspberry, black tea, cigar box and shades of anise on the palate. The range here is really nice. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘The Great SchisM’ Red Wine- A blend of largely Grenache and Syrah, with smaller portions Mourvedre, ‘The Great SchisM’ was sourced from the Riviere Galets Estate Vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks District AVA. Aged in French foudre (100%), this limited production bottling opens with red currants that mingle with lighter wet stone and Hoisin sauce aromas that all meld together in the glass. The freshness imparted is fantastic, as bright acidity runs through the core of red fruits, blood orange zest and damp wet stone and green olive tapenade flavors. This is utterly fantastic in its youth, but has another decade to go. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Whistling Hills Vineyard’ Syrah- Rich black fruits and chocolate tones round out the nose. The palate has good freshness with medium-bodied red and dark fruit flavors. While this is well-made  and well-balanced, I would like a bit more richness considering the varietal and the vineyard site. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Reserve’ Syrah- The 2017 ‘Reserve’ Syrah by Tertulia Cellars was largely sourced from the Riviere Galets Estate Vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks District AVA. Highly perfumed, the Syrah opens with smoked brisket that collide with lavender and violets on the nose. The palate has a good sense of elegance with a lovely mineral backbone. Black and red fruits dance with minerals and orange zest flavors with hints of tobacco leaf on this expansive palate. This finishes long with black fruits and minerals. A delight to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘Reserve’ Syrah should cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2016 Tertulia Cellars ‘Phinny Hill Vineyard’ Carmenere- Sourced from the Phinny Hill Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, the 2016 Carmenere opens with classic herbal tones of green bell pepper and dried sage with black fruits all connecting on the nose. The palate has good freshness with medium-bodied dark fruit and chocolate flavors, with green bell pepper accents. What this doesn’t have in weight it makes up for it in Bordelaise character and downright delicious black fruit flavors. Drink 2020-2026- 90

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- Deeply colored in the glass, the 2017 ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc shows lighter wet stone with red bell pepper and blackberry cobbler aromas that all build together in the glass. The palate unveils a silky mouthfeel with bright acidity and black and blue fruits mingling with the lovely sense of tension that runs through the core of the wine. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2016 Tertulia Cellars ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The smoky tones entice on the nose which mingle with the blackberry pie and dried herbal aromatics which all meld in the glass. The palate shows off a silky texture, delivering generous dark fruits that mingle with the chocolate covered espresso bean tones. This is fantastic now and will cellar well over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Ryans’ Reserve’ Red Wine- The 2017 Tertulia Cellars ‘Ryans’ Reserve’ Red Wine is crafted by both winemaker Ryan Raber and winegrower Ryan Driver. The final blending was 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Malbec sourced from the Elevation, Riviere Galets and Whistling Hills Vineyard. Deep and brooding dark fruits collide with milk chocolate and undertones of black licorice and red bell pepper aromas that all mingle in the glass. The palate unveils good freshness with medium-bodied dark fruit and milk chocolate with sagebrush flavors. The long finish is exceedingly gratifying. Drink 2020-2029- 91

2017 Tierra Labrada ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Merlot- The 2017 Tierra Labrada ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Merlot is a highly unique bottling by the talented Ryan Raber. Right out of the gate this shows bright red fruits that mingle with shades of dark plum, and exotic spices that all connect together in the glass. The palate has good freshness and acidity, delivering medium-bodied flavors of red licorice that mingle with the light citrus rind and red currant with red cherry puree flavors. This is best enjoyed in its youth while the wonderful brightness and high tones shine most brightly. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Tierra Labrada ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the esteemed Elevation Vineyard in the North Fork of the Walla Walla river, the 2017 Tierra Labrada Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromatic of Black Forest Cake, and dried sage that take shape in the glass. The palate shows excellent freshness, delivering medium-bodied blackberry pie, sagebrush, roasted date and dark chocolate shaving flavors. Like its evil twin, the 2017 Tierra Labrada ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Merlot, the 2017 Tierra Labrada ‘Elevation Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is best suited to savor in the first five years of its development, while the wonderful brightness remains. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Tierra Labrada ‘Elevation Vineyard’ Petit Verdot- Dense and massive, the 2017 Tierra Labrada shows soft and layered blackberry pie, mocha, anise and chocolate covered espresso bean flavors, with leafy undertones. Complex and downright delicious right now, the 2017 Tierra Labrada Petit Verdot will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2027- 91

ROCO Winery

My best friend and I began visiting Oregon wine country in 2002. We were both finishing up our senior years at Whitman College and knew next to nothing about wine. One of the wineries that was most compelling to me at the time was those made at Argyle. They had created a tremendous sparkling wine program that seemed remarkably consistent. I became exceedingly fond of those wines as well as the wonderful Pinot Noirs made there by legendary winemaker, Rollin Soles. 

I long admired the wines that Rollin made at Argyle and began purchasing them in 2002 until he started his own winery project, ROCO winery. Sadly I have very few of those wines left [they were so good they miraculously vanished] but I remember some incredible ones like the 2002 Argyle ‘Nuthouse’ which I was fortunate enough to revisit over the Christmas holiday. Needless to say, the wine is still absolutely singing. 

Rollin only recently began making sparkling wines again at his namesake winery and are all very glad that he did. His 2015 ‘RMS Rose’ made its way on our 2019 WWB Top 100 and his new sparkling wines are simply thrilling — as compelling as any of their kind made in Oregon. Look to the 2016 ROCO ‘RMS’ Sparkling Wine (WWB, 94) which has a beautiful mousse and silky texture that truly entices. Rollin has crafted a thrilling new Pinot Noir bottling with his 2017 ROCO ‘Private Stash No. 15’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which is rich, viscous and downright delicious in its youth. This total stunner will cellar well for decades to come. Learn more about these outstanding wines at rocowinery.com. Here are the beautiful new wines by ROCO and superstar winemaker Rollin Soles.

2016 ROCO ‘RMS’ Sparkling Wine- A brilliant follow up to the 2015 bottling, the 2016 ‘RMS’ opens with an intense bouquet of bright green apples that meld with shades of nutmeg infused sourdough bread and lemon curd that all come together in the glass. The balance imparted here is simply marvelous as the wine shows a silky mousse and marvelous texture that shows off this warm vintage in the Willamette Valley. Fantastic in its nascent phase, the 2016 ‘RMS’ will enjoy at least another decade of life ahead of it — but is nearly impossible to resist right now. Drink 2020-2030- 94

2016 ROCO ‘RMS’ Rose Sparkling Wine- The 2016 ROCO ‘RMS’ Rose Sparkling Wine is a simply magical new Rose Sparkling Wine that rivals anything in its kind. The wine is a simply stunning release by famed winemaker Rollin Soles that will have a long life ahead of it in the cellar. Once on the nose you are awoken to bright cranberry and citrus zest aromatics that combine with suggestions of teaberry and white pepper that all meld together in the glass. The silky mousse entices as bright red fruits collect momentum with mineral and citrus rind accents the all sing in harmony on the palate. Bright and dense, with a silky mouthfeel, the 2016 ROCO ‘RMS’ Rose Sparkling Wine will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2017 ROCO ‘The Stalker’ Pinot Noir- This intriguing wine mixes Pinot Noir grapes with mature grape stalks. The nose is generous with bright red fruits that meld with lighter damp earthy toners that all come together in the glass. The palate is plush, showing round and generous red fruit flavors with baking spice and lighter citrus rind tones. Fantastic and marvelously textured in its youth, enjoy this ‘Stalker’ over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 ROCO ‘Private Stash No. 15’ Pinot Noir- This is the 15th edition of this limited edition wine made by legendary Oregon producer Rollin Soles. The nose is exceedingly good ranging from black truffle shavings and peat moss to wild blackberry and suggestions of red currant jelly that all mingle together on the nose. The palate has a seamless quality that effortlessly glides, reveling a range of red fruit flavors alongside bright minerals, orange zest and damp earthy tones. While this is seriously good now, the ‘Private Stash No. 15’ will cellar well over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 ROCO ‘Knudsen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Rollin Soles has sourced from this esteemed vineyard for more than a decade. The resultant 2017 edition shows gorgeous aromatic range from red currants to sandalwood tones as well as lemon zest and shades of white truffle that all come together marvelously in the glass. The palate is full-bodied and generous, with wonderful length and verve. Guava puree and red raspberry cordial collide with suggestions of wild mushroom, peat moss and copious minerals. Bright, with outstanding richness, the 2017 ‘Knudsen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will enjoy a long time in the cellar. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 ROCO ‘Marsh Estate’ Pinot Noir- The simply magical ‘Marsh Estate’ Pinot Noir is a gorgeous new wine from Rollin Soles. The brightness and downright awesome texture of the wine really excites the senses. Bright red fruits collide with high-toned citrus rind accents and earthy undertones on the palate. Fantastic in its youth, the 2017 ‘Marsh Estate’ will enjoy a decade or more in the cellar. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Perinet

One of the truly exciting projects out of Priorat, Perinet is an inspired winery which was first started in 2004. The owners of Alpha Omega, who craft world class Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are investors in this project. Years ago the owners were impressed by the wines of Priorat that are largely Grenache based but have other varietals blended in. These are wines that are quite different to those from top producers Clos Erasmus and Clos Mogador — but the new Perinet wines truly rival anything out of this region. 

I found out about this project years ago when I visited Alpha Omega and met with their director of communications, Kelly Carter. Kelly had just made her voyage to Priorat, visiting the winery and trying the new wines. My ears perked up when I heard about the Alpha Omega investment as I have been enamored by the overall quality of the Alpha Omega wines for years. Kelly fawned over these new wines that I simply had to taste.

For those who have come to love the great wines of Jean Hoeflieger at Alpha Omega, you will be pleased to hear that he helps consult on these wines, made by the talented Antoni Sánchez-Ortiz. Antoni was born on December 4, 1978 in a small valley in Spain’s Pyrenees. He studied winemaking at the University of Tarragona (Spain) and the University Victor Segalen in Bordeaux (France). Toni possesses extensive technical and laboratory skills, further honed by his Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Barcelona and has been making wines in Priorat for the past twenty years.

I have been traveling quite a bit over the past month and haven’t had as much time to see my patients. Because I was running low on time with my travels, I brought these new releases to my office to taste. The quiet confines of a my evaluation room really gave me time to focus on the wines.The 2016 Perinet Red Wine Priorat (WWB, 94) is dense, monster of a wine that is largely Grenache, Syrah and Carignan with a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. Rich and showing layers of dark and blue fruits, this is a stunning wine for the cellar. Even better was the 2016 Perinet ‘1194’ Priorat (WWB, 96) which totally floored me with its massive core of red and dark fruits alongside great poise. This true heavyhitter is nothing short of a magical effort that will evolve for decades to come. Learn more about this great new winery at https://www.perinetwinery.com. Here are the stunning new wines by Perinet. 

2016 Perinet ‘Merit’ Priorat- The ‘Merit’ is a blend of mostly Merlot and Syrah, with smaller portions Garnatxa and Carinyena. The beautiful earthy and red fruit aromatics entice with lighter flinty undertones that all take place in the glass. The palate has good freshness with medium to full-bodied kirsch, underbrush and bulls blood flavors with citrus rind accents. Complex and downright delicious in its youth, the ‘Merit’ will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Perinet Red Wine Priorat- The 2016 Perinet Red Wine is a stunning blend of Garnatxa (33%), Syrah (25%), and Carinyena (25%), with 16% Cabernet Sauvignon.  Deeply perfumed once in the glass, the Perinet shows red rose water with shades of anise, black licorice and copious red fruits with wet stone accents that all meld together in the glass. The palate is dense and polished, showing off its silky mouthfeel and voluptuous texture. Deep Hoisin sauce with rich red and black fruits dance with minerals and damp earthy undertones. Every bit stunning in its youth, the 2016 Perinet Red Wine will cellar well for the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2016 Perinet ‘1194’ Priorat- A blend of primarily Garnatxa, with a small part Carignan, the ‘1194’ is a stunning new wine that truly showcases this region in an extravagant style. Black fruits and spicy undertones dominate the nose with the damp stone terroir combining marvelously in the glass. Fleshy, with a dense and polished texture, the wine shows moderate tannins that line a deep core of red and dark fruits with sagebrush, milk chocolate and white pepper undertones on the palate. Massive, with serious poise and richness, the ‘1194’ is a tour de force in this region that is unlike any other I have sampled. Drink 2022-2040- 96

Buil & Gine

Today we venture across the Atlantic to DOCa Priorat, which is located in Catalonia, not too far from Barcelona. For years I have been somewhat infatuated by this region and have visited several years back. The terroir from this mountainous region is just insanely cool. The region produces some of the great wines of the world including Clos Erasmus and Clos Mogador. If you have never tried any of the great wines from Priorat, you are in for a serious treat. 

Buil & Gine mainly makes wines from the DOCa Priorat, but also makes wines from the DO Montsant,  DO Rueda and  DO Toro regions. The winery was founded in the winter of 1996 and in the spring of 1998, they introduced their first wine, Giné Giné 1997. The wine was named after the founder’s grandfather who had always been a wine grower and active member of the wine industry in Priorat. Their Priorat winery even has a four star hotel and restaurant for luxurious visits. 

One of their great new releases in their 2018 Buil & Gine ‘Joan Gine’ Blanc (WWB, 92) has an awesome range of flavors and shows great freshness. This winer makes an outstanding Rose and their 2019 Buil & Gine ‘Gine Rosat’ Priorat (WWB, 91) has incredible freshness and is beautifully textured with bright red fruits and citrus rind accents. Learn more about this fantastic w9nery at http://www.builgine.com Here are the great new releases by Buil & Gine. 

2017 Buil & Gine ‘Gine Gine’ Priorat- An equal blend of old vine Grenache and Carignan, the 2017 ‘Gine Gine’ opens with very pretty red rose petals aromatics and shades of lavender that combine with the ripe red fruits and citrus rind tones that are woven together in the glass. The palate is soft, round and elegant, showing off a silky mouthfeel. Medium-bodied sour kirsch, cran-orange and sweet pipe tobacco flavors combine with the bright sense of minerality and silky mouthfeel. This is seriously good for the price. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2018 Buil & Gine ‘Gine Rosat’ Rose- The ‘Gine Rosat’ Rose is a thrilling new wine from this great Priorat estate. The freshness and wonderful sense of minerality entices, as its silky texture and soft mouthfeel combines with the delicate red fruit, orange rind and wet stone flavors. I love the combination of viscosity and tension here. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2018 Buil & Gine ‘Joan Gine’ Priorat Blanco- The 2018 ‘Joan Gine’ Blanco is a seriously good blend of 50% White Garnacha, 25% Macabeo, 20% Viognier and 5% Pedro Ximenez and Muscat. Showing better at a warmer temperature, the silky texture entices as bright pear and kiwi flavors collide with shades of lemon blossom and nutmeg on this complex palate. Fantastic now, this will evolve well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2014 Buil & Gine ‘Joan Gine’ Priorat- The 2014 ‘Joan Gine’ Priorat is a gorgeous offering by Buil & Gine. The wine is an impressive blend of 45% Red Garnacha, 40% Cariñena and equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that was aged in 300L American and French oak barrels for 12 months before bottling. The freshness and bright red fruits really impress, as a light dusting of salinity collides with shades of black tea and exotic spices on the palate. With wonderful viscosity and acidity, the 2014 ‘Joan Gine’ will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2033- 93