Leonetti Cellar

As part of Walla Walla Wine Month we share one of the great historic Washington wineries, Leonetti Cellar was founded by eminent winemaker Gary Figgins in 1977. At the time he was the first Washington winery to by highly acclaimed as his 1978 Cabernet Sauvignon was named top Cabernet of the year by Wine & Spirits magazine. I have been enchanted with the aging potential of these wines over the year.

I have had the pleasure to sample several older Leonetti wines and I can say that these age as well as any Washington producer. More recently I have tried their 2008 Leonetti Merlot which is really only starting to come together with its pillowy mouthfeel. This thing has more than a decade of life ahead of it. The same is true for the thrilling 2012 Leonetti Merlot which is incredibly youthful at the eight year mark. This beauty evolved magically over five plus hours, showing nice cedar and pipe tobacco tones to go alongside with its decadent dark and red fruits with a opulent texture.

I recently had the chance to review the new set of releases by Leonetti and was completely blown away with the quality in the bottle. For those who are a bit less familiar, Leonetti sources from great Walla Walla vineyards including their own Leonetti Old Block, as well as Mill Creek Upland, Loess vineyards and their Holly Roller Vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA. Their new releases were largely from the warm 2017 vintage — one that was warmer and that generally had consistent, warm weather.

I was absolutely blown away with the 2017 Leonetti Cellar Sangiovese (WWB, 95) which rivals anything in North America with its silky texture and impressive range of flavors and aromatics. Even better was the scintillating 2017 Leonetti Cellar‘Reserve’ Red Wine (WWB, 98) which has amazing richness and intensity. This wine is only an infant and really needs a few more years of bottle age. Learn more about these beautiful new release wines at http://leonetticellar.com Here are the impressive new lineup of wines from Leonetti Cellar.

2017 Leonetti Cellar Sangiovese- The 2017 Leonetti Cellar Sangiovese is a stellar new wine that is amongst the best of its kind in North America. Chris Figgins has proclaimed that this is the best Sangiovese that he has made since the 2005 vintage and I find it hard not agree with that contention. Aged for twenty two months in a combination of new and used French oak, and oval botti, the 2017 Sangiovese needs an hour decant to fully be aroused. After some time in the decanter, the wine slowly unveils layers of sandalwood and tart cherry with sagebrush, cardamom and kumquat aromas that all meld in the glass. The palate is remarkably textured and has tremendous weight and verve. Black Forest Cake flavors take you by surprise, as earthy undertones, and citrus rind accents all round out this expressive palate. Moderately tannic, this simply sumptuous new wine has incredible aging potential and really shouldn’t be touched for at least another two years. This is quite simply a masterpiece by superstar winemaker Chris Figgins. Drink 2022-2040- 95

2018 Leonetti Cellar Merlot- This outstanding 100% Merlot was largely sourced from the Loess Vineyard (66%) with smaller portions from the Mill Creek Upland and their 40-year-old original block at the Leonetti winery. Needing a two hour decant to fully open, the 2018 Leonetti Merlot slowly unveils layers of toasty oak that are woven together with black cherry cordial, sagebrush and milk chocolate tones that all come together in the glass. The silky texture truly impresses, as the wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Cocoa powder dusted red cherries greet you, while flavors of underbrush, damp earth and espresso bean all enliven the senses. A complete wine, the 2018 Leonetti Cellar Merlot will enjoy a long life in the cellar. Try to resist this stunning new wine for at least another two years. Drink 2022-2040- 95

2017 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon is a scintillating new wine from this storied Walla Walla estate. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 5% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot this wine was aged for twenty two months in a combination of  new French oak barrels, once-filled French oak barrels, and neutral oval botti. Sourced from the Seven Hills, Loess, Holy Roller and Mill Creek Upland vineyards, the Cabernet opens with sandalwood aromatics that mingle with suggestions of dark chocolate covered espresso bean, creosote and wild blackberry cobbler that all take shape in the glass. The seamless texture is truly gorgeous, as layers of black fruits combine with dark chocolate and tar flavors, with nice silty undertones. Vibrant minerality and light tannins frame this expressive new effort. A delight to savor even at this stage, the 2017 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon will enjoy an exceedingly long life ahead of it. If enjoying over the next several years, be sure to give this at least a two hour decant before enjoying. Drink 2022-2040- 96

2014 Leonetti Cellar ‘Serra Pedace Vineyard’ Aglianico- Sourced from the ‘Serra Peace Vineyard’ in the Walla Walla Valley, the 2014 Leonetti Aglianico is a massive, dense beast of a wine that needs a lot of air to be tamed. Needing a two to three hour decant at this frame, the wine slowly unveils layers of coffee grounds and boysenberry preserves that mingle with Earl Grey tea and lighter cocoa powder accents that all mingle in the glass. The palate has silky tannins that line a massive core of dark fruits, sagebrush, Turkish coffee and suggestions of smoked brisket. The flavor range here is sensational. With its bright acidity and deep flavors, the 2014 Leonetti Cellar Aglianico is a truly one of a kind wine that will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2022-2040- 95

2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Reserve’ Red Wine- The 2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Reserve’ Red Wine is a thrilling, dense, monster of a wine from superstar winemaker Chris Figgins. Judging only from the color and the weight of this wine, it is no surprise that there is a massive amount of Petit Verdot blended in as the wine checks in at 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Petit Verdot and 10% Malbec. Needing a two hour decant to be fully expressive, once aroused the ‘Reserve’ slowly unveils layers of dark fruits with green bell pepper, sagebrush and blueberry compote tones that all march together in the glass. The palate is dense, seamless and downright hedonistic. Medium tannins line the core of blueberry pie, mocha, Asian spices and silty undertones with a gorgeous combination of mouthfeel and tension. Truly one of a kind in the state, the 2017 Leonetti ‘Reserve’ will cellar well for decades to come. Try to resist this scintillating new release for at least two to three more years. Drink 2023-2045- 98

DuMOL

One of the storied Russian River Valley estates, DuMOL is one of North America’s great producers of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Cabernet in California. DuMol has simply a magical lineup that rivals anything in the state. Originally born as a hobby in 1996, DuMOL became official in 1999 when Andy Smith began making some really special wines. Andy hails from Scotland, and has previous stints at Dry River, Littorai, Havens, Franus, to Matua and Mt Pleasant wineries. Andy went on to graduate in viticulture and enology from Lincoln University in Christchurch, NZ and later became assistant winemaker for Paul Hobbs. Needless to say, Andy Smith has a handle on every single varietal that he touches.

The current releases by DuMOL were sensational and are some of the best lineups of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that you will find. They 2017 DuMOL ‘Chloe, Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay (WWB, 95) is a masterful wine that has massive tension and a huge core of orchard fruits. The long finish is tremendous. Andy Smith has crafted some stunning new Cabernets, and his 2017 DuMOL ‘Meteor Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 95) is a stunning wine that has tremendous depth and concentration as well as acidity. This giant beast of a wine really needs another year or two in the cellar to mature. Learn more about these beautiful wines at https://www.dumol.com Here are my reviews of the stunning new releases by DuMOL. 

2017 DuMOL ‘Chloe, Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The ‘Chloe’ is sourced from this famed vineyard in the Russian River Valley AVA. This is their seventeenth vintage of this great wine which is old vine Wente clone Chardonnay. The nose shows serious range from butterscotch to lemon zest and shades of roasted hazelnut that all take center stage in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, showing a wonderful combination of viscosity and tension. Rich buttercream and Meyer lemon creme brûlée flavors combine brilliantly with the earthy undertones. Every bit profound in its youth, this true heavyhitter of a Chardonnay is a masterpiece by superstar winemaker Andy Smith. Enjoy this great wine over the next decade, as it will pick up lovely tertiary tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2032- 95

2017 DuMOL‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay- One of the great spots in the Carneros AVA, the Hyde Vineyard has been one of the most famous sites for Chardonnay in North America over the past decades. Needing to be warmed up a bit and showing better with some air, the 2017 ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay was aged in 32% new French oak for twelve months prior to bottling. The earthy tones brilliantly combine with freshly cut pineapple and vanilla cream that all mingle together in the glass. The freshness and verve to the wine is fantastic. Highly elegant and showing great length, the wine delivers a long and lingering lemon cream finish that gratifies. Beautiful in its youth, the 2017 ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 94

2017 DuMOL ‘Isobel, Charles Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay- The 2017 DuMol ‘Isobel’ Chardonnay is a sinfully good new bottling by the talented hands of Scotsman Andy Smith. On the nose this takes on rich pineapple upside down cake and hints of wild mushrooms and cloves crusted brioche that all mingle together in the glass. The soft, almost oily texture and bright sense of minerality really shows through.Intense orchard and tropical fruits combine with minerals and freshly baked French bread flavors all amalgamate seamlessly. A sly dusting of salinity runs through the core of the wine, adding to the seriously good flavor range. While this is absolutely singing right now, the 2017 DuMol Chardonnay will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2032-95’ 

2017 DuMOL ‘Finn’ Pinot Noir- Released in the fall of 2019, the ‘Finn’ Pinot Noir is sourced from mainly the O’Connell Estate Vineyard in the Russian River Valley. Aged for fifteen months in 50% new French oak, this shows a wide array of red and dark fruits aromatically with lovely black tea, forest floor and shades of black truffle shavings that all march in unison in the glass. The palate has a silky mouthfeel with gobs of red and dark fruits, with citrus rind and peat moss tones that round out this fabulous new Pinot Noir bottling. While this is fresh and vibrant in its youth, it will evolve well for a decade or more to come, picking up lovely tertiary tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2017 DuMOL ‘Ryan, Jentoft Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Ryan’ Pinot Noir is sourced from the ‘Jentoft Vineyard’ which is a new site utilized by winemaker Andy Smith and is characterized by shallow coastal marine soils that have layers of sandstone bedrock poking through the topsoil. The resultant Pinot Noir is a simply wondrous bottling that you really want to sit with over several hours as it evolves. The saline driven and silty aromatics derived from this great wine are simply amazing. Just as good is the verve and incredible freshness that goes along with the great viscosity of the wine. The seamless quality marvelously accentuates this beautiful new bottling. Gorgeous and polished in its youth, the ‘Ryan’ Pinot Noir will have a long life ahead of it — but is nearly impossible to resist right now. Drink 2020-2035- 96

2017 DuMOL ‘DuMol Estate Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- A true heavyhitter, the 2017 DuMol ‘DuMol Estate Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is a scintillating new bottling from this storied Russian River Valley estate. Sourced from the ‘DuMol Estate Vineyard’ which is known for its high density plantings. This is a relatively new vineyard which is planted to Calera, Swan & 943 Pinot Noir clones. Needing a one hour decant to fully evolve, the wine takes it shape with plush dark fruits with teaberry and orange rind accents alongside earthy undertones that build in the glass. The palate is silky smooth and highly elegant but also rich and gratifying. Wild blackberry and black cherry fill the core of the wine alongside the damp earth and copious minerals on the palate. Fantastic to enjoy while young, try to give this a long decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2021-2035- 96

2017 DuMOL ‘Estate Vineyard’ Syrah- The ‘Estate’ Syrah is sourced from a two acre parcel set on the Sonoma Coast AVA. Yields were down considerably in 2017 as this was largely aged in neutral puncheons prior to bottling. Right away the saline drenched red and dark fruits provide great aromatic appeal. Round, showing beautiful astringency and a soft texture, this gorgeous, terroir-driven Syrah has great range from orange rind to red cherry preserves and wild blackberry combining with the salted damp earth nuances. The long and inviting finish culminates this great new wine that will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 95

2017 DuMOL‘Ballard Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The heavily forested Balllard Vineyard is perched high atop Spring Mountain. The Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for twenty months in 57% new French oak prior to bottling. Immediately the rich cassis and dark berry aromas entice, melding with the dusty terroir and shades of sweet pipe tobacco that all mingle in the glass. The palate is dense and lush, providing medium tannins and a generous mouthfeel. Rich blackberry cobbler, mocha, tar and anise combine with the menthol and damp earthy tones of the wine. Showing a great combination of balance and richness, the 2017 ‘Ballard Vineyard’ will have a long life in the cellar. Be sure to give this a two hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2022-2040- 94

2017 DuMOL ‘Meteor Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Coombsville AVA in the Napa Valley, the 2017 ‘Meteor Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a simply stunning new bottling from this storied site in the Napa Valley. The nose is classic Napa with its creme de cassis, red bell pepper, cigar box and boysenberry cordial tones that combine in the glass. The heady aromatics bring you back to the glass for more delight. Viscous and rich, showing an err of decadence, the wine seamlessly glides across the mid-palate. Mocha, asphalt and creme de cassis flavors meld with the blueberry compote and silty earth tones on the palate. The long finish lingers. A true heavyhitter, the 2017 ‘Meteor Vineyard’ will be singing for decades to come. Drink 2022-2040- 95

Epoch

It is only fitting that we lay tribute to one of Paso Robles’s great wineries. Many of us were saddened to hear that Hospice du Rhone will be postponed for another year. I was very much looking forward to my pilgrimage down south to try some of the best Rhone style wines the world has to offer. I have long admired Epoch wines based out of Paso Robles. Regardless of vintage, Epoch wines thrive in the warmest and coolest of vintages. I have been particularly impressed how they have navigated the run of very warm vintages which began in 2012 and has continued with their latest releases. The wines are obviously quite dense but have a good degree of tension and freshness.

Superstar winemaker, Jordan Fiorentini, has been crafting some incredible wines for Epoch. Her new wines were largely sourced from the warm, 2016 vintage that saw an early harvest. While some wineries suffered damage from heat, Jordan’s wines have good richness but also show excellent poise as well. Her 2016 Epoch ‘Veracity’ Red Wine (WWB, 94) is a blend of mainly Mourvedre and Grenache. It is a stunning rendition with its smoky tones and bright red fruits. Even better is the 2016 Epoch ‘Estate’ Red Wine (WWB, 95) which is an unusual blend of mostly Rhone varietals and has incredible depth and texture. Learn more about these outstanding wines at epochwines.com. Here are the great new wines by Epoch.

2018 Epoch White Wine- A great blend of mostly Grenache Blanc and Viognier, the Epoch White Wine shows lovely starfruit and green apple aromas that take shape in the glass. The palate is soft and inviting, showing a beautiful texture and a long finish. The minerals and lovely ripe pear and cantaloupe flavors accentuate this brilliant new bottling. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2018 Epoch Rose- The 2018 Rose by Epoch is a compelling blend of Mourvedre, Grenache and Syrah all sourced from the Willow Creek District of the Paso Robles AVA. On the nose this offers inviting cran-pomegranate, damp earth and red cherry candy aromas that build steam in the glass. The palate reveals a wonderfully plus texture with a vibrant sense of minerality. Bright red fruits dance with melon and citrus rind undertones on the palate. While delightful now this beautifully textured new Rose will provide drinking enjoyment for the next seven years. Drink 2019-2025- 91

2016 Epoch ‘Ingenuity’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Ingenuity’ is a compelling blend of mostly Syrah (54%) with smaller portions Petit Sirah, Mourvedre and Grenache. The highly perfumed nose of red rose petals and lavender aptly collide with shades of orange zest and black currants that all take their shape in the glass. The palate has great verve and weight, with a silky mouthfeel. Rich creme de cassis, blackberry cobbler, tar and espresso bean flavors mingle with the bright sense of minerality. Showing great weight and finesse, the 2016 ‘Ingenuity’ will cellar well for the next decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2016 Epoch ‘Veracity’ Red Wine- The ‘Veracity’ by Epoch and superstar winemaker Jordan Fiorentini is a great blend of Mourvedre (51%) with Grenache (36%) and Syrah (13%). On the nose this takes on a wonderful bouquet of red currants that mingle with red cherry candy, smoked brisket and suggestions of creosote that come together. The palate is plush and bright, showing a good sense of viscosity and minerality. Dense dark and red fruits collide with suggestions of Turkish coffee and smoky undertones. Fantastic in its youth, the 2016 Epoch ‘Veracity’ Red Wine will cellar well over the next decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2016 Epoch ‘Estate Blend’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Estate Blend’ combines mainly Syrah (58%) with smaller portions of Mourvedre, Grenache and Tempranillo. Highly fragrant in the glass, the wine delivers white pepper and blackberry cobbler aromatics that mingle with shades of bacon fat and cigar box that all combine seamlessly. Once on the mouth, the wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Dense red and dark fruits mingle with chocolate cake, leather and shades of clove crusted smoked pork belly. Delightful now, the 2016 ‘Estate Blend’ impresses with its serious range and texture. It’ll be sensational to enjoy for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2032- 95 

L’Ecole No. 41

It was a warm summer day as I walked over to one of the famed wineries of the Pacific Northwest, L’Ecole No. 41. As the sun gleamed in the bright blue sky, I entered the historic schoolhouse building as I had many times before. L’Ecole No. 41 was one of the first wineries that I ever set foot in. My first visit was in 2002 while I was a senior at Whitman College and I fondly recall the casual atmosphere where such a great range of wines were poured. That hot summer day would be a bit more serious as I embarked on a fantastic voyage back into time to revisit some older vintages of the wines. 

It is no surprise that L’Ecole has produced another wonderful set of releases, ranging from crisp Chardonnay to rich Merlot. Marty Clubb serves as managing winemaker and oversees all vineyard management. Winemaker Marcus Rafanelli has recently taken over for Mike Sharon, having some large shoes to fill. L’Ecole makes a ton of different wines as both Marty and Marcus oversee over 90 lots of wine each year.

I was hugely impressed with the new 2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Luminesce’ White Wine (WWB, 91) which is an incredible value and has a great combination of poise and richness. L’Ecole has built a very strong reputation for their Chardonnay over the years. L’Ecole has been improving their Rose program and their 2019 L’Ecole No. 41 Rose (WWB, 91) is downright awesome with its silky texture and pretty red fruits. Even better is their gorgeous 2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ Red Wine (WWB, 94) which has massive tension and a great core of dark fruits, with lovely stony undertones from this famed vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley. Learn more about this outstanding winery at http://lecole.com/ Here are the great new wines by L’Ecole No. 41.

2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Luminesce’ White Wine- The 2018 ‘Luminesce’ is a compelling blend of 55% Sauvignon Blanc with the remainder Semillon which was sourced from the esteemed Seven Hills Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley AVA. On the nose this takes on bright Bosc pear and shades of kumquat rind that mingle with the baking spices undertones. The freshness and texture imparted is lovely, as lively acidity and a faint salinity runs through the core of the wine. Bright melon and lemon curd flavors collide with the copious minerals. Fantastic now, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Yakima Valley’ Chenin Blanc- Bright pear and starfruit with nutmeg infused Challah bread tones mark this expressive nose. The palate has marvelous verve and tension, with a light dusting of salinity that runs through the core of orchard fruit flavors. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Stillwater Creek Vineyard’ Semillon- The ‘Stillwater Creek Vineyard’ is a cooler climate site in the Columbia Valley AVA. On the nose this shows off buttered brioche and starfruit aromas that connect with shades of nutmeg that all mingle together in the glass. The palate has great freshness and intensity with medium-bodied Pazzaz apple, honeydew melon and nectarine flavors that mingle with the bright sense of minerality. Enjoy this beautiful wine in its youth while the freshness remains. Drink 2019-2025- 91

2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Semillon- Perennially one of the outstanding value Washington white wine, the 2018 Semillon by L’Ecole No. 41 opens with buttered bread and nutmeg with salted macadamia nut aromas that meld in the glass. Jucy, with a soft texture, this unveils layers of melon flavors that combine with the wonderfully bright acidity and good viscosity of the wine. Seriously good now, this needs a warm summer day and a patio overlooking the water. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 L’Ecole No. 41 Rose- This pale colored Grenache Rose was sourced from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. Fresh and vibrant with a great combination of tension and viscosity, this reveals pretty rose water and watermelon flavors with shades of cantaloupe and sourdough bread on the palate. Seriously good now,  enjoy this beautiful bottling over the next several years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay- The 2018 ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay follows the excellent long line of releases by L’Ecole. Nutmeg infused sourdough bread and shades of ripe pear that round out the beautiful aromatics in the wine. The soft texture greets you as the wine shows a seamless quality that runs through the wine on the palate. Seriously good right now, this will age well for a decade, picking up tertiary notes as it develops. Drink 2020-2026- 92

2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Located in the Ancient Lakes AVA, the ‘Evergreen Vineyard’ has gained a sterling reputation for high-toned Chardonnay over the past decade. The brightness is apparent on the palate as the wine shows gobs of minerals that collide with the melon and lemon cream flavors. This is fantastic stuff that will evolve well over the next seven plus years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘GSM Stone Tree Vineyard’ Red Wine- The ‘Stone Tree Vineyard’ has gained a great reputation for Rhone varietals over the past decade as this wine is near equal parts Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Thew smoky and damp earth tones really entice, as a core of black fruits and bacon fat open up aromatically. The palate is dense and chewy with a massive core of dark fruits that surround smoked brisket, wet stone and orange rind tones. The combination of freshness and weight is sensational. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah- A smoky whiff takes over the wine as ripe dark fruits and chocolate fill the nose. The palate has great freshness and verve with rich roasted figs, smoked pork shoulder and mocha flavor with shades of tar. Drink 2020-2026- 91

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Syrah- The famed ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ is one of the jewels in Walla Walla, producing high quality Syrah and Bordeaux varietals. Fresh sage and damp earthy tones combine with silt, dark fruits and potpourri on this exotic nose. The palate is silky smooth with a bright acidity and deep core of blackberry cobbler, mocha and tar, with smoky undertones. A complete wine, the 2017 ‘Seven Hills Vineyarfd’ Syrah will have another decade or more ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2016 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon by L’Ecole No. 41 is a gorgeous new effort from this warm vintage. Intense sandalwood aromas with creme de cassis, mocha and shades of blueberry pie all mingle together in the glass. The palate has a great combination of power and elegance as blackberry pie, black tea, exotic spices and shades of dark chocolate all come together in the glass. Fantastic in its youth, this beautiful wine will have at least a decade ahead of it. Drink 2020-2029- 92

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced equally from the ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ and the ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ the 2016 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon opens with layers of blackberry and tar that mingle with the lighter sagebrush and wet stone tones on the nose. The stony character to the wine really enhances the deep layers of dark fruits and chocolate tones on the palate. Gorgeous to enjoy right now, the ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon will cellar well for decades to come. Be sure to give this at least an hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2035- 93

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Merlot- The 2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Merlot is an awesome value from this famed Walla Walla estate. Toasty oak connects with cassis and dark chocolate covered cherry aromatics, with faint sagebrush tones that mingle in the glass. The palate is soft and elegant, giving a good combination of power and verve. Rich black fruits dance with minerals and damp earthy tones on the palate. This is seriously good stuff for the price. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Almost as good as the ‘Columbia Valley’ Merlot, the 2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off a silky texture and plush mouthfeel. Soft tannins line the core of cassis, mocha and tar flavors, with blue fruit undertones. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon will cellar well over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2017 L’Ecole No. 41’Walla Walla Valley’ Merlot- Sourced from both the Seven Hills and Ferguson Vineyards, the 2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Merlot opens with bright red fruits that connect with sagebrush and a light dusting of cocoa powder on this expressive nose. The palate is highly Bordelaise with wonderful structure and a strong vein of tension that runs through the core of dark fruits, wet stone, sagebrush and Black Forest cake flavors. Give this elegant wine a two hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2022-2035- 92

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Merlot/Cabernet Franc- A really unique wine, the 2017 Merlot/Cabernet Franc was sourced from both the Ferguson and Seven Hills Vineyards. Needing a two hour decant to get going, the wine slowly unveils red bell pepper and anise aromatics that mingle with blackberry cobbler and shades of creosote that all take shape in the glass. The palate is beautifully structured, with serious length and a light blue fruit undertone that melds with the copious minerality and deep dark fruit flavors of the wine. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth (following a long decant), this beautiful wine will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2022-2040- 93

2017 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ Red Wine- One of the unique sites in the Walla Walla Valley, the ‘Ferguson Vineyard’ is a high elevation site that is set atop a ridge of ancient lava flows. Needing a two hour decant to fully be aroused, the wine awakens with lavender and rich black fruits that meld with dark chocolate shavings and graphite on this expressive bouquet. The palate has great freshness and viscosity, with a silky texture. While obviously a big wine, the elegance provides a seamless factor that is hard to describe. Moderately tannic at this juncture, this finishes very long with silty earth, dark fruits and minerals. Sensational even this young, try to give this beautiful wine at least two more years before enjoying. Drink 2022-2040- 94

Caliza

Today we venture south to Paso Robles to share one of the outstanding producers that is relatively new to the game. Last year I had the chance to visit with the talented Caliza winemaker and co-proprietor Carl Bowker. Over the past several years I have been really impressed with these wines. His wines have been steadily improving over the years, as he has faced some challenging, super hot vintages where bright acidity is difficult to attain. 

Spanish for “limestone" Caliza has a 20-acre vineyard largely set on limestone soils. The vineyard is predominantly comprised of hillsides with south-facing slopes which leads to maximum sun exposure. Set at 900-1200 feet above sea level in Templeton Gap area, the vineyard faces strong diurnal shifts which creates some nice tension in the wines. It is clear that planting so high has really helped the wines, particularly in the recent hot vintages. 

Caliza’s vineyard was planted near L’Aventure and Booker which has proven to be a really good investment. Carl Bowker graduated from Napa Valley College’s Viticulture and Enology associate program in 2004. He has crafted an absolutely awesome new 2019 Caliza ‘Pink’ Rose (WWB, 91) which has a wonderful tension and length. This is a gorgeous summer sipper. The 2017 Caliza Grenache (WWB, 93) is a stunning wine that has a great combination of range and bright acidity with a long, lingering finish. Learn more about these outstanding Paso Robles wins at https://www.calizawinery.com Here are the excellent new wines by Caliza. 

2019 Caliza ‘Pink’ Rose- The ‘Pink’ Rose is a seriously good, stand alone Rose wine by Caliza. The smoky tones entice on the nose and mingle with watermelon and rose water on this expressive bouquet. The palate has really good freshnesses and a silky texture. Bright red currants and teaberry flavors dance with smoky and earthy undertones on the palate. Enjoy this great wine over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2019 Caliza ‘Kissin Cousins’ White Wine- The ‘Kissin Cousins’ is a really cool blend of Viognier (48%) with Grenache Blanc (30% and Roussanne (12%) that was aged in a combination of stainless steel and concrete prior to bottling. Bright lychee and starfruit with nutty undertones all come together on the nose. The palate has good freshness and a downright silky texture. Layers of green apple, honeydew melon and bright starfruit with nutmeg accents all come together seamlessly on the palate. The freshness and texture of the wine is really outstanding. Great to enjoy right now, the 2019 ‘Kissin Cousins’ will have another five to seven years to go at least. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Caliza Grenache- The 2017 Caliza Grenache was aged for eighteen months in half new French oak prior to bottling. The nose shows ripe red rose petals that meld with red cherry candy and shades of guava with damp earth accents that all take shape in the glass. The palate is dense and plush, showing a bright acidity and seriously good range from red cherry puree to bright guava and starfruit with Mandarin orange rind accents. The finish lingers long on the tongue. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Caliza ‘Azimuth’ Red Wine- The Azimuth is a compelling blend of 48% Mouredre and 35% Syrah with 17% Grenache. Aged in largely used oak, this opens with blood orange zest that meld with red cherry candy and shades of smoked pork shoulder on this compelling nose. The soft texture is seriously good, as is the bright acidity of the wine that runs through the core of red and dark fruits with orange rind and smoky accents. Sensational in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well for another decade, Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Caliza ‘Sympatico’ Red Wine- Mainly Tempranillo (72%) with small portions Mourvedre and Grenache, the 2017 ‘Sympatico’ shows lovely scorched earth and tar tones that collide with the deep core of blackberry cobbler and mocha that all mingle in the glass. The palate is dense and shows great texture and mouthfeel. The length and generous dark fruits with chocolate and earthy undertones all come together marvelously on the palate. A complete wine, the 2017 ‘Sympatico’ will cellar well for another decade to come. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Caliza Primitivo- This 100% Primitivo wine was aged for eighteen months in 35% new French oak prior to bottling. Stewed red cherry and rich date aromatics with sassafras accents all come together in the glass. The palate has wonderful freshness and richness with light tannins that line the massive core of dark fruits with chocolate and sagebrush undertones. Marvelous to savor right now, the 2017 Caliza Primitivo will have another decade or more ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 93

Herman Story

Every great wine has a creative genius behind it. Russell P. From is the creative genius behind Herman Story wines. Russell grew up visiting his grandfather’s farm in eastern Missouri, driving a tractor and generally getting into whatever trouble he could find. Over time Russell grew very fond of the outdoors. Growing up in the East Bay of San Francisco, Russell attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, studying agricultural business, harkening back to his days visiting that Missouri farm.

He caught the wine bug at a very early age, interning at Lockwood Vineyards in his Freshman year of college he has never looked back, now working over 25 harvests. HIs winery, Herman Story, began in 2001 and has received great critical acclaim since its inception in 2002. Having tried these wines over the past decade, the style tends to be a bold, unbridled style of winemaking that full-throttle and hedonistic. 

Nearly two years ago my college, Dr. Jae Hong, and I tasted at the winery and we were both blown away with the overall quality of the lineup. Such is true with the new wines, mostly coming from the 2017 vintage in Paso Robles which was very warm and some feared some heat damage from the super high August temperatures. These wines were all exceedingly rich and decadent but also showed excellent acidity.  The 2017 Herman Story ‘Larner Vineyard’ Red Wine (WWB, 93) is a stunning wine that has good brightness and wonderful density. I was blown away with the 2017 Herman Story ‘White Hawk Vineyard’ Syrah (WWB, 93) which is a massive and intense wine that has everything you would expect from a great Paso Syrah. Learn more about these outstanding wines at https://www.hermanstorywines.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Russell P. From and his Herman Story winery.

2017 Herman Story ‘Larner Vineyard’ Red Wine- A blend of 55% Syrah with the reminder Grenache, the ‘Larner Vineyard’ shows massive tar and tobacco with a massive core of dark fruits on this intense nose. The texture imparted is thrilling. A light minerality connects with the soft blackberry and black cherry flavors that meld with the earthy undertones. Fantastic in its youth, the ‘Larner Vineyard’ will cellar well over the next ten years. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Herman Story ‘Casual Encounters’ Red Wine- The ‘Casual Encounters’ is an impressive blend of mainly Syrah and Grenache with small portions Grenache, Carignan and a hint of Tannat. On the nose this takes on spicy undertones that meld with the rich core of dark fruits and creosote tones. Rich and round, with a soft mouthfeel, the wine unveils Black Forest Cake, black olive tapenade and mocha flavors that connect with the good mineral backbone. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2015 Herman Story ‘Late Bloomer’ Grenache- Soft, round and generous, this massive Grenache wine shows deep layers of tar and tobacco leaf that dance with the rich core of red and dark fruits. Soft and generous, this has serious length and richness. Not for the weary, this high octane Grenache will be best enjoyed over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Herman Story ‘Shadow Canyon Vineyard’ Red Wine- A blend of 80% Syrah with the remainder Grenache, this high octane wine shows deep dark fruits with blueberry compote, creosote and leather on this expressive nose. The palate has massive dark fruits with a good mineral backbone that mingles with the tar and blueberry pie flavors. Forward, with great length and richness, the ‘Shadow Canyon Vineyard’ will have another decade in the cellar but is nearly impossible to resist right now. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Herman Story ‘White Hawk Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2017 ‘White Hawk Vineyard’ Syrah by Herman Story is a gorgeous new intense and decadent release. Massive and intense, with a huge core of dark fruits, chocolate and sandalwood flavors, the ‘White Hawk Vineyard’ will have at least another seven years in the cellar to enjoy — and is a massive challenge to resist in its youth. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2017 Herman Story ‘Bolt Cutter’ Red Wine- The ‘Bolt Cutter’ is an intense blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon with near equal portions Petit Verdot and Syrah. Dense and generous, this has a silky mouthfeel and wonderful structure. Light tannins frame a core of dark fruits and chocolate, with anise and pencil lead accents. A gorgeous bottling in its youth, the ‘Bolt Cutter’ will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

Panther Creek

Years ago a change was needed at Panther Creek. Tony Rynders got the call to take over their winemaking program. Speaking to Tony about this, he was excited at the opportunity. Having already consulted for many Oregon wineries, Tony set out to craft some very special single vineyard Pinot Noirs with his signature style — wines that exude great texture, richness and minerality. I have been floored to see what he has done with these wines. The main thing I haven noticed is their consistency across the board and also quality in their entry level bottling, the ‘Winemaker’s Cuvee’ which has been really good since he first took over the program. 

For those who are less familiar with Panther Creek, it is one of the great historic Oregon wineries. Panther Creek was originally founded by famed winemaker Ken Wright in 1986 who gained national attention for his wines sourced from the Freedom Hill and Shea Vineyards. In 1994 Mark Vlossak of St. Innocent fame took over as consulting winemaker and produced some marvelous wines until he focused his talents on his own winery. The winery was acquired by Bacchus Capital in 2013 which led to the appointment of superstar winemaker Tony Rynders as consulting winemaker. If you haven’t had the chance to check out these new wines since 2013, they are definitely worth a visit.

For the second year in a row Tony has crafted a gorgeous Panther Creek ‘Winemaker’s Cuvee’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 92), this rendition coming from the 2018 vintage and magically captures the art of blending several Willamette Valley vineyards.  I am really impressed with the 2017 Panther Creek ‘Kalita Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) as this has tremendous freshness and verve alongside a core of red fruits and earthy undertones. Learn more about these great new wines at at http://www.panthercreekcellars.com Here are the outstanding new wines by Panther Creek. 

2018 Panther Creek ‘Winemaker’s Cuvee’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Winemaker’s Cuvee’ by Panther Creek and superstar winemaker Tony Rynders is jam-packed of ripe red and dark fruits with spicy orange zest and earthy undertones. It is full-bodied and far from subtle but has a vibrant acid backbone keeping everything marvelously in place. Enjoy this in the short-term while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Panther Creek ‘De Ponte Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Located in the Dundee Hills AVA, the De Ponte Vineyard has long been producing fantastic, dark=fruit driven Pinot Noirs. Silky smooth on the palate, this shows off a soft texture and wonderfully plush mouthfeel. Layers of dark fruits meld with shades of peat moss, and minerals. Delightful to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘De Ponte Vineyard’ will have another decade or more in the cellar. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Panther Creek ‘Maverick Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Maverick Vineyard’ is located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA and is a new site planted to 19 acres. Aromatically this is bright and lively with juicy red berries and citrus rind with damp earth undertones that all mingle in the glass. The palate is lithe and polished with a soft, silky texture. Outstanding in its youth, this deep and rich, yet high-toned Pinot Noir, will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 Panther Creek ‘Lazy River Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Set on Jory soils, the 2017 ‘Lazy River Vineyard’ Pinot Noir opens with bright cran-cherry and orange rind aromas that meld with the earthy undertones on the nose. The palate is lithe and beautifully textured. Elegant and medium-bodied red fruit flavors greet you with nutmeg and damp earthy tones that all come together in a seamless fashion. Downright delicious, with its ripeness, range and silky texture, the 2017 Panther Creek ‘Lazy River Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will cellar well over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 Panther Creek ‘Kalita Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Kalita Vineyard’ shows off serious aromatic range from peat moss and forest floor to wild blackberry and Mandarin orange zest that all mingle together in the glass. The freshness and mouthfeel imparted is marvelous, as the lightly tannic palate evokes both richness and elegance. Fantastic in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next ten plus years. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 Panther Creek ‘Carter Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Carter Vineyard’ is located in the southern part of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. The lovely volcanic ash aromas marvelously combine with the high-toned red fruits and orange zest tones that all sing in harmony in the glass. The palate has wonderful verve and freshness with medium bodied red fruit and volcanic earth flavors. Enjoy over the next ten years as this is a simply marvelous effort by superstar winemaker Tony Rynders. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Prothro Family Wines

Bruce Prothro is living the American dream. A chemist by trade, Bruce and his wife, Ronda became interested in wine at the start of their relationship. Their first date was wine tasting in Napa and one year later they were married. In 1991, Bruce and Ronda began making their own wine by purchasing Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay grapes from a vineyard in the Russian River Valley that supplied grapes to DeLoach Winery. With no formal training, they borrowed and rented equipment to crush, ferment, and press almost two tons of grapes, yielding nearly 120 gallons of barrel-aged wine. Even though they made a few mistakes that first year, the wine was a hit among their friends and family and became a staple at their parties and get togethers.

Over the next seven years they made wine out of their garage. Along the way they had help from several heavyweight figures in California wine including Burt Williams at Williams Selyem, Dexter and Val Ahlgren at Ahlgren Vineyards, Ken Burnap at Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyards, Kent Rosenbloom and Jeff Cohn at Rosenbloom Cellars, and the crew at David Bruce Winery.

Their dream has become a reality as their first wine, the 2014 Prothro Family Wines Cabernet Sauvignon was met with critical acclaim. I have tried these wines over several years and have been very impressed with what I have seen. Their new lineup is downright awesome. I loved the 2017 Prothro Family Wines ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc (WWB, 92) which has delightful blue fruits and great aging potential. Even better is their 2016 Prothro Family Wines ‘Heritage Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 93) which is a deep and hedonistic wine that will cellar well for decades to come. Learn more about this great new Napa winery at https://prothrofamilywines.com/ Here are the beautiful new wines by Prothro Family Wines.

2017 Prothro Family Wines ‘Cuvee No. 3’ Red Wine- The 2017 ‘Cuvee No. 3’ is a blend of 94.5% Broken Rock Vineyard Merlot with 3% Broken Rock Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot, and 0.5% Cabernet Franc. This leads with nice herbal undertones on the nose with rich dark fruits and espresso bean aromatics that take shape in the glass. The palate shows good balance with a silky mouthfeel and forward kirsch, mocha and tar flavors that come together nicely. Downright awesome in its youth the 2017 Prothro ‘Cuvee No. 3’ will cellar well for a decade to come. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2017 Prothro ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc-Sourced from this famed Napa Vineyard, the 20017 ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc opens with black tea, exotic spice and rich dark fruit aromatics that meld in the glass. The palate is silky and round, with a lovely mouthfeel. Rich dark and blue fruits align with a soft and generous mouthfeel and light tannins that provide the backbone of this great new wine. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2017 Prothro ‘Signature Release’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Entirely sourced from the Broken Rock Vineyard, the wine is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon with 3% Petit Verdot, 2.5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot, and 0.5% Malbec. The whiff of Turkish coffee and creme de cassis provide immediate enjoyment, as damp earth and sweet tobacco leaf tones round out this expressive nose. The palate is soft, round and generous, delivering a good range of dark fruits, with chocolate covered espresso bean accents. Fantastic in its youth, the 2017 ‘Signature Release’ will cellar well for the next fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 92

2017 Prothro ‘Heritage Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Heritage Reserve’ by Prothro is a gorgeous new Cabernet Sauvignon wine. Sourced from the G3 vineyard in  Rutherford, this takes on compelling aromatics of black currants and anise that meld with sagebrush, mocha and tar tones that all come together in the glass. Full-bodied, yet very elegant, the seamless quality alongside rich dark fruits, graphite and anise flavors throughout is quite magical. Downright awesome to consume in its full-throttle youth, the 2017 ‘Heritage Reserve’ by Prothro will cellar well for at least another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2038- 93 

Gran Moraine

One of the outstanding houses in Oregon, Gran Moraine is named after the cataclysmic floods that occurred in the northern Willamette Valley of Oregon during the last ice age. As the flood waters receded, they impacted the region, leaving small indentations or mini valleys (moraines), similar to those in the the Côte ’Or in Burgundy. Located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, Gran Moraine has 220 acres planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

At the helm is winemaker Shane Moore who is an Idaho native has a bachelor of science in enology and viticulture from Washington State University and previously spent three years gaining international winemaking experience in Canada, Western Australia and Israel’s Golan Heights. In 2011 Shane began working for Jackson Family Wines winemaking team as an enologist, crafting cool climate California Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Shane helped build the Gran Moraine winemaking team and was named winemaker in 2016. 

I really enjoyed his new wines. A downright awesome new Pinot Noir, 2016 Gran Moraine Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) has great length and richness, with a marvelous vein of tension. Learn more about this fantastic winery at https://www.granmoraine.com Here are the great new releases by Gran Moraine. 

2016 Gran Moraine ‘Yamhill-Carlton’ Chardonnay- The 2016 Gran Moraine Chardonnay is an outstanding wine that was aged for fifteen months in a combination of French oak barrels and stainless steel before bottling. Toasty brioche, Macadamia nut and shades of Pink Lady apple all fill the nose. The palate is beautifully balanced with a vibrant sense of acidity. With marvelous length, this beautiful bottling will be best enjoyed over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2016 Gran Moraine ‘Yamhill-Carlton’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 Gran Moraine Pinot Noir underwent 20% whole cluster fermentation before being aged for ten months in French oak barrels (32% new). The palate shows wonderful brightness and verve with a vibrant sense of minerality. Ripe dark cherry, rose water, blood orange zest and tobacco leaf flavors combine with the damp earth and peat tones tones on the palate. This shows seriously good range for the price as this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Audeant

Occasionally I find it imperative to tell a winery story as soon as I try their wines. Yesterday in my tasting set I tried wines from a new Oregon winery and was massively impressed with what I saw in the glass. The degree of tension in the wines and sterling sense of mineralty, while providing a soft, supple texture rang true in this small set of wines. 

Andrew Reichers reached out to me several weeks ago, telling his story in wine. Originally from Eugene, Oregon, he has a long-standing history in the wine industry, originally starting his career with helping with wine production in Santa Barbara at a bulk wine facility. Andrew was the first employee at Sanguis under epic winemaker Matthias Pippig and has also spent time in New Zealand, at Burn Cottage, and in Burgundy in the Haute Cote working for Claire Naudin at Domaine Naudin Ferrand. More recently Andrew has served for five years as the assistant winemaker at Antica Terra and Lillian with Maggie Harrison prior to joining and founding Audeant Wines with Proprietor, Teal Walker, in 2016. Needless to say, Andrew has a very impressive resume, and it shows in what you taste in the glass. 

One of the great Rose wines that I have sampled so far out of Oregon, from the 2018 vintage is the Audeant Rose (WWB, 91) which has a silky texture and impressive aromatic and flavor range. Even better is the dazzling 2017 Audreant ‘Nysa Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93). Andrew has now worked his seventeenth harvest, and eleventh in Oregon. I will be excited to see how his wines evolve moving forward. Learn more about this exciting new winery at https://www.audeant.com Here are the beautiful new wine releases by Audeant. 

2018 Audeant Rose- Very delicate red fruits and rose water and a light stony character line the nose. The palate has good freshness and a silky texture. The bright acidity impresses as lighter citrus rind and guava flavors combine with wet stone accents. I love the range here, as the mouth-watering acidity completes this great new wine. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2017 Audeant ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- This entry level bottling opens with spiced red fruits that dance with shades of Mandarin orange zest and peat moss tones that all collect momentum in the glass. The palate shows bright acidity alongside a beautiful core of red fruits that mingle with minerals, wild mushroom and blood orange undertones.  This is seriously good stuff that is best enjoyed in its youth, while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Audeant ‘Luminous Hills Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Luminous Hills Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is an outstanding new release by Audeant. Bright Bing cherries and peat moss tones jump right out of the glass, with citrus rind accents rounding out this expressive nose. The palate shows vibrant acidity with a silky mouthfeel and wonderful texture. The seamless quality of the wine is apparent. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 Audeant ‘Nysa Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Deeply colored once in the glass, the ‘Nysa Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows bright dark cherry and volcanic terroir on the nose. The palate has wonderful viscosity, tension and length, with a long, blackberry and mineral-driven finish. The stony, terroir really comes through nicely, connecting with the core of dark fruits. Fantastic to enjoy right now, the ‘Nysa Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will continue to provide drinking enjoyment for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2033- 93

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