Soter Vineyards

As part of Oregon Wine Month we bring you one of the storied houses in the Willamette Valley, Soter Vineyards. Soter boasts of the famous vineyard sites in Oregon. Founded by Tony and Michelle Soter, the Soter 'Mineral Springs Ranch’ is a 240-acre oak savanna in the center of the Willamette Valley. The vineyard is certified biodynamic and was planted to 15 acres of Pinot Noir in 2002 and 2003, and an additional 15 acres in 2006. Two acres of Chardonnay were included in the 2006 plantings and are devoted entirely to our sparkling wine production. Small extension blocks have been added over the years to grow our total production to 40 acres. Having visited the winery several years back, it is a simply gorgeous site to sample their beautiful range of wines. 

Chris Fladwood serves as winemaker, having a storied career which included several years in the Army, until dedicating his civilian life to winemaking. Chris has worked harvests in New Zealand as well as Bordeaux. He became cellar master in 2009 and has worked his way to the winemaker position. He has crafted some beautiful wines at many different price points. 

Soter has gained national attention for their sparkling wines. I absolutely loved their 2015 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Rose Sparkling Wine (WWB, 93) which has superb freshness and a lovely range on the palate. Soter has a value wine in their portfolio that over-delivers for the price. I loved the 2018 Planet Oregon Pinot Noir (WWB, 90) which has vibrant acidity and a core of juicy fruits. The new 2017 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) is highly elegant with a great combination of earthy tones and dark fruit flavors. This is one for the cellar. Learn more about this famed Oregon producer at http://sotervineyards.com/ Here are the beautiful new wines by Soter Vineyards. 

2015 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Vineyard’ Rose Sparkling Wine- This outstanding new sparkling wine bottling opens with lovely cran-cherry and damp earth tones that combine with the suggestions of nutmeg infused sourdough bread on this expressive nose. The palate is silky snooth, showing a soft mouse and delicate red fruits that dance with melon and Granny Smith apple flavors. The soft texture really entices here as this beautiful wine is best enjoyed over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2018 North Valley ‘Classic’ Chardonnay- The ‘Classic’ Chardonnay shows light flinty tones that combine with bright orchard fruits on the nose. Lighter Gala apple flavors combine with minerals and damp earth tones on the palate. This is really good stuff that is best served at a cooler temperature, showing its brightness at its peak. Drink 2020-2025- 89

2018 North Valley ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay- Aged in roughly 25% new French oak, the ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay opens with toasty oak and brioche tones that mingle with cantaloupe and shades of nutmeg that all take shape in the glass. The silky texture is downright awesome, as is the exceedingly long finish with vanilla cream and minerals. This gratifying new Chardonnay will be a long-ager. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2018 Planet Oregon Pinot Noir- The 2018 Planet Oregon Pinot Noir has ripe red and black fruits with a great mineral backbone. The combination of juicy fruits and acidity makes this sing as this excellent value Pinot Noir is best enjoyed in the short-term while the freshness remains. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2017 North Valley Pinot Noir- Aromas of teaberry and cranberry catch your eye as lighter wet stone and damp earth tones come together in the glass. The palate has good freshness and verve with juicy red fruits that dance with shades of nutmeg and cardamom infused citrus fruits on the palate. Enjoy this great new wine in the short-term. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2017 North Valley ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 North Valley ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir is an outstanding new release that is showing brilliantly in its youth. The freshness and verve of the wine really entices as black fruits mingle with minerals and smoky undertones on the palate. Fantastic now, this will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2028- 91

2017 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Ranch’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Mineral Springs Ranch’ is a 240 acre plot of land that is biodynamically farmed, located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. The 2017 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Ranch’ Pinot Noir is a brilliant new release that has a long way to go. Highly perfumed, this takes the lead with very pretty red rose petal aromatics that are woven together with shades of black tea, peat moss and cran-cherry that all take shape in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, revealing its soft texture and wonderfully plush mouthfeel. Layers of bright red fruits dance with shades of food orange and suggestions of forest floor and wild mushroom on the palate. Showing amazing range, this finishes long with red fruits and minerals. A long-ager, the 2017 Soter ‘Mineral Springs Ranch’ Pinot Noir will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2035- 93

2016 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Pinot Noir- Truly outstanding, the 2016 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Pinot Noir is a downright awesome new wine from this storied Yamhill-Carlton Hills estate. On the nose the Pinot Noir shows pretty guava and cranberry aromas which are woven together with ripe red cherry, wet stone and rose water accents that mingle together. The texture and mouthfeel is outstanding as layers of bright red fruits mingle with the citrus rind, wet stone and saline drenched damp earth tones on the palate. Showing marvelously now at the four year mark, the 2016 Soter ‘Mineral Springs’ Pinot Noir will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 93

Matthews

It has been several years since I have featured this Woodinville mainstay. Considering the consistent level of beautiful wines that they craft, a feature is considerably overdue. Matthews winery is set just outside the wine square of Woodinville, in a relaxed, countryside atmosphere. A few years back they made some really nice renovations to their tasting room. I can’t wait for the tasting rooms to reopen so I can utilize their outdoor space.

Matthews relies on the talented hands of Aryn Morell who consults for a host of exceptional Washington wineries. One of the great winemakers in the state, Morell has had previous jobs at some of the best Napa estates including Joseph Phelps, Quintessa, Chimney Rock, Vineyard 29, Chappellet, Stags Leap Winery, and Turnbull. He became head winemaker for Matthews in 2007 and Morell sources his grapes from some great vineyards in Washington like Stillwater Creek, Lawrence Weinbau and Sagemoor Vineyards. All Matthews wines are made at Aryn's production facility in Walla Walla. 

Several months ago I tasted with Aryn, as he gave me a good background on the wines. HE has a deft touch on white wines and I love the 2018 Matthews Sauvignon Blanc (WWB, 91) which has great freshness but also good richness, with a light dusting of salinity. This is a wine that is great to enjoy in its youth but also has some cellaring potential. I love the 2016 Matthews Merlot (WWB, 92) has awesome balance, weight and freshness from this warm vintage in the Columbia valley. Learn more about Matthews at http://www.matthewswinery.com/ Here are the great new releases by Matthews.

2018 Matthews Sauvignon Blanc- The 2018 Matthews Sauvignon Blanc shows tremendous freshness and acidity with layers of kiwi, white peach and shades of green apple with lemongrass undertones that all take shape on the palate, accented by a light salinity. The outstanding finish lingers. Enjoy this wonderful bright wine in its youth while the intensity remains. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2018 Matthews ‘Reserve’ Sauvignon Blanc- Seriously good right now, the 2018 ‘Reserve’ Sauvignon Blanc shows impressive texture and finesse with a silky mouthfeel. Layers of ripe pear, gooseberry and shades of nutmeg and clove, with French bread tones all combine on the palate. Having really good length, this outstanding new wine will enjoy another five to seven years ahead of it. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2017 Blackboard Red Wine- A melange of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Syrah, the Blackboard Red Wine shows forward fruity tones with toasty oak and shades of cinnamon and cloves alongside the chocolate fudge core. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 Matthews Claret- The 2016 Claret shows layers of toasty oak that wrap around a core of bkackberries, black currants and cigar box flavors with chocolate tones. While only 32% Merlot, the dusting of cocoa powder seems to be playing first chair at this juncture. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2016 Matthews Merlot- Sourced from a host of Columbia Valley vineyards, the 2016 Matthews Merlot was aged in 50% new French oak for 21 months before bottling. This is classic Washington Merlot with its classy texture and soft mouthfeel that makes this glide across the mid-palate. Juicy red cherry and blackberry tones combine with chocolate cake and sagebrush undertones on the palate. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Matthews ‘Cuvee’ Red Wine- The 2017 ‘Cuvee’ blends Merlot (49%) with Cabernet Franc (31%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (20%). Aged in a slightly smaller portion of new French oak (28%) the wine delivers lighter herbal undertones that mingle with the good sense of minerality and soft texture alongside a core of dark kirsch and blackberry flavors. This beautiful wine that has really good balance will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2017 Matthews Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Stillwater Creek, Solaksen, Dinoysus, Quintessence, Canyons, Shaw 3 and Pepper Bridge vineyards, the 2017 Matthews Cabernet Sauvignon shows a silly texture and layers of black fruits with minerals and soft tannins with a long, generous finish. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 Matthews Cabernet Sauvignon will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 92

Tablas Creek

One of the outstanding producers in Paso Robles, Tablas Creek was founded in 1990 by Jean-Pierre and François Perrin of the Perrin family, proprietors of Beaucastel since the early 20th century, and Robert Haas, an importer and the founder of Vineyard Brands. In 1989 the Perrins and Haas chose the site, a former alfalfa farm that is set on limestone soils in the Adelaida Hills. From the beginning they focused on Rhône-style wines made organically. The first plantings took place in1994 and the first Tablas Creek Vineyard wines produced in 1997. The winery has been an incredible success since that time, reaching worldwide acclaim particularly for their Rhone style red and white blends.

I absolutely loved the new wines across the board. I have had the chance to review more than 100 Rose wines for my upcoming Rose Report. Look to one of the great Rose wines made in North America, the 2019 Tablas Creek ’Dianthus’ Rose (WWB, 93) which is rich and vibrant, with loads of tension and acidity, as well as weight and range. I loved the 2018 Tablas Creek Roussanne (WWB, 94) which stands tall amongst the best Roussanne bottlings in North America. Rich and beautifully textured, with a bright core of acidity, this is a seriously good white wine by Tablas Creek that has excellent aging potential. Learn more about these outstanding wines at https://tablascreek.com Here are the compelling new wines by Tablas Creek. 

2019 Tablas Creek Vermentino- One of the unusual varietals that you don’t find throughout North America, Tablas Creek has gained a very strong reputation for crafting this wine, a variety that is typically grown in the Rhone Valley and in Italy. The wine is beautifully structured with a silky texture that entices. Bright kiwi and gooseberry flavors mingle with wet stone and cut grass tones on the palate. Lithe and refreshing, yet gratifying with its richness, the 2019 Tablas Creek Vermentino will provide drinking enjoyment for the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2018 Tablas Creek Roussanne- Very pretty shades of beeswax and ripe melon build aromatically in the glass, with wet stone and Pazzaz apple accents. The palate is marvelously textured with an almost unctuous mouthfeel. Wait for the long, highly gratifying finish that provides the proper crescendo at the end. A stunning wine in its youth, with the combination of weight and acidity, the 2018 Tablas Creek Roussanne will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2027- 94

2019 Tablas Creek ‘Patelin de Tablas’ Rose- The 2019 ‘Patelin de Tablas’ is a really cool blend that utilizes nine different vineyards in Paso Robles and is primarily Grenache based (76%). With just a kiss of sweetness you are greeted to very pretty rose water, red currants, pomegranate seed and shades of blood orange zest on the palate. This has some seriously good length as the 2019 ‘Patelin de Tablas’ Rose will be best enjoyed over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2019 Tablas Creek ‘Dianthus’ Rose- The 2019 ‘Dianthus’ Rose is a scintillating new effort that is truly one of the top Rose wines you will find in California. A blend of Mourvedre (52%). Grenache (33%) and Counoise (13%), the ‘Dianthus’ shows off its vibrant pink hue, delivering rich red rose petals and guava tones that collide with suggestions of damp earth and orange blossom aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is marvelously textured with a silky mouthfeel. Layers of red fruits dance with citrus rind, rose water and shades of damp stone on this highly complex palate. The combination of richness, viscosity, tension and length is truly marvelous in this thrilling new Rose. Marvelous to enjoy in its youth, the 2019 ‘Dianthus’ Rose will enjoy a long life ahead of it, picking up early tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2018 Tablas Creek ‘Patelin de Tablas’ Red Wine- A blend of mostly Grenache, Mourvedre and Syrah, the ‘Patelin de Tablas’ has medium bodied red fruit flavors with shades of white pepper, smoked meats and Provencale herbs. Enjoy this in its youth while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2018 Tablas Creek ‘Cotes de Tablas’ Red Wine- A blend of primarily Syrah (43%) and Syrah (33%) with smaller portions Mourvedre and Grenache, the 2018 ‘Cotes de Tablas’ shows a wonderfully soft texture with guava, red cherry candy, orange and and cigar box flavors. This has seriously good length and bright acidity, with a silky texture that entices. Enjoy this great new wine over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

Upchurch Vineyard

Years ago one of Washington’s iconic winemakers, Chris Upchurch and his wife, Thea, got the nerve to create their own Upchurch Vineyard, one of the state’s great boutique wineries located in Red Mountain. Having visited the Upchurches last summer and toured the vineyard, there is something really special about this site. The expansive views of the Columbia Valley from their estate create an incredible panoramic effect. For those who have never visited Upchurch Vineyard, I implore you to visit if nothing else for the beauty of the site. 

Chris Upchurch is one of the great pioneers in Washington wine, having crafted the finest Bordeaux style white wine for DeLille, the ‘Chaleur Estate Blanc’ in the mid-1990s. This wine has achieved incredible acclaim since that time and not only is one of the great white wines made in Washington but it rivals any Bordeaux Blanc style wines made in the new world.

Chris crafts one of the great Sauvignon Blancs in Washington, his 2017 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc (WWB, 94) which has massive aging potential and will cellar well for the next decade — but is nearly impossible to resist in its youth. I was blown away with the 2017 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 94) which is dense and layered, having some awesome cellaring potential. Learn more about this fantastic winery at https://upchurchvineyard.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Upchurch Vineyard.

2017 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc- One of the great Sauvignon Blancs produced in Washington State, the 2017 ‘Southwest Facing’ was entirely aged in concrete tanks for 18 months before bottling. The cornucopia of aromatics that hit you really take you back, ranging from buttered brioche to beeswax and ripe pineapple alongside melon tones that all sing in unison. The texture is simply stunning, as the silky mouthfeel effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Layers of honeydew melon and Pink Lady apple connect with salted macadamia nut and suggestions of Japanese pear that all gain momentum on the palate. Showing marvelously in its youth, the 2017 ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2028- 94

2017 Upchurch Vineyard ‘LTL’ Red Wine- The ‘LTL’ or ‘Larger Than Life’ artistically displays superstar winemaker Chris Upchurch doing pump-overs on the label. Layers of toasty oak are woven together with chocolate covered espresso bean and sagebrush aromatics that all build in the glass. The palate is plush, delivering sweet pipe tobacco, anise, cassis and blackberry cobbler flavors, with herbal undertones. This delivers a serious punch for the price, as the 2017 ‘LTL’ is best enjoyed over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Counterpart’ Red Wine- The 2017 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Counterpart’ Red Wine is a gorgeous new Merlot wine by this famed Red Mountain estate. A fantastic blend of 65% Merlot  35% Cabernet Sauvignon that was aged in French oak before bottling, the ‘Counterpart’ opens with layers of kirsch liqueur and milk chocolate that mingle with sagebrush tones on the nose. The palate has layers of dark fruits with a silky texture. Round and generous, this plush effort will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon- An outstanding follow up to the absolutely stunning 2016 bottling, the 2017 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautiful new rich and layered wine that is meant for the cellar. On the nose this shows Black Forest Cake and exotic spices that collide with black olive and creme de cassis which all sing in unison. The palate has great freshness, verve and richness, with layers of dark fruits that mingle with light tannins and chocolate tones that all come together marvelously. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2038- 94

Andrew Will

One of the legendary producers of Washington, Andrew Will is a family run venture that helped put Washington on the map for its age-worthy and compelling red blends. Founded by eminent winemaker Chris Camarda back in 1989, the winery was named his winery for nephew Andrew and son Will, who now serves as head winemaker. Andrew Will is located on Vashon Island not far from Seattle. 

Chris started his winery by sourcing from two great vineyards in Washington, the Champoux and Ciel du Cheval Vineyards. Today they source all of their grapes from their Two Blondes Vineyard as well as those two historic vineyards. Will Carmada is relatively young in the winemaking game, but he has learned a great deal from his father. Intelligent and down to earth Will has an enormous ceiling as winemaker. More recently he landed one of his wines at Daniel NYC on glass pour which speaks to the quality of the wines and is a tremendous milestone for Washington State wines. 

Will has crafted a beautiful entry level wine, the 2018 Involuntary Commitment Red Wine (WWB, 91) which is rich and layered, as well as downright awesome to enjoy in its youth but has another seven to ten years of life ahead of it. cellar well for at least another six years, picking up tertiary notes. The best wine I tried was the stunning 2015 Andrew Will ‘Two Blondes Vineyard’ Red Wine (WWB, 95) which was a hard vintage to make wines of this quality from with the major heat spikes and record early harvest. It is hard to find the complexity and mid-palate ripeness from any wine of this vintage. This wine is absolutely singing right now, and has the structure and richness to cellar well over the next fifteen plus years. Learn more about these stunning wines at http://www.andrewwill.com/home/ Here are the beautiful new release wines by Andrew Will. 

2018 Involuntary Commitment Red Wine- A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot this shows seriously good blueberry compote, mocha and tar aromatics that take shape in the glass. The palate is fresh and deep, showing a rich core of dark fruits that mingle with coffee ground and milk chocolate tones. While a touch forward, I love the sense of decadence. Drink 2020-2027- 91 

2015 Andrew Will ‘Champoux Vineyard’ Red Wine- The seriously good 2015 ‘Champoux Red Wine’ is another scintillating release from the talented Will Carmada. A blend of mostly Merlot (51%) with 32% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, this shows intense red and dark fruits with chocolate and sagebrush undertones on the nose. The palate is plush with a good sense of elegance and layers of red and dark fruits with Turkish coffee tones. The combination of freshness and weight is really good. Give this a long decant before enjoying. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2015 Andrew Will ‘Ciel du Cheval’ Red Wine- One of the famed sites in Washington, the Ciel du Cheval Vineyard is located in the Red Mountain AVA. A blend of mainly Merlot (63%) with 37% Cabernet Franc, this shows layers of blackberries and black currants that dance with suggestions of dark chocolate shavings and sagebrush that all take shape in the glass. The palate is soft, round and generous, showing gorgeous creme de cassis, mocha, tar and blackberry cobbler flavors, alongside a bright sense of minerality. This is seriously good considering the heat spikes incurred at this location in 2015. Simply put, the wine is downright awesome now and will evolve well for another ten to fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2015 Andrew Will ‘Two Blondes Vineyard’ Red Wine- The 2015 ‘Two Blondes Vineyard’ Red Wine is a unique blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot (33%) with equal parts Cabernet Franc and Malbec (17%). The Turkish coffee and blueberry compote aromatics give this an exotic edge as sagebrush and damp earth undertones all entice. The palate is plush, delivering layers of black and blue fruits with espresso bean and shades of sandalwood and cloves all come together on the palate. Deep, layered and rich, with a sterling sense of minerality, the 2015 ‘Two Blondes Vineyard’ Red Wine is truly one of the best wines of this vintage. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2015 Andrew Will ‘Sorella’ Red Wine- Sourced from the famed ‘Champoux Vineyard’ in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA, the ‘Sorella’ shows layers of dark fruits and creosote aromatics that mingle with coffee grounds and dark chocolate shavings that all take shape in the glass. The wine has good freshness with layers of blackberry cobbler and black currants with damp earth and sagebrush tones. The plush texture entices as light tannins and a long finish complete this beautiful bottling. Drink 2020-2035- 93

Brittan Vineyards

One of my favorite things about Oregon Pinot Noir is the diversity of terroir throughout the valley. Some Pinots are made with salty undertones from the marine soils while others show great volcanic terroir. Some show bright red fruits or dark fruits while others focus on earthy, non-fruit tones. Many years ago I was introduced to the amazing wines of Brittan Vineyards and the talented Robert Brittan, who was the former winemaker at Stags’ Leap Winery in Napa. Robert is a graduate of the UC Davis Viticulture and Enology program and founded Brittan Vineyards in 2004, acquiring a 128-acre hillside property with soils that are a mixture of glacial deposits and volcanic material, with a predominant presence of broken basalt. The volcanic material brings out a terrific stony quality in the Pinot Noirs. In addition to the Pinot Noir, Robert has 4 acres of Chardonnay and 1.5 acres of Syrah have been planted. In addition to his own wines, Robert serves as consulting winemaker for several other brands, including Winderlea, Fairsing, deLancellotti, Youngberg Hill, Ayoub and Shea 

Occasionally I will open older bottles of Brittan Vineyards and I have been very impressed with their 2013 releases recently. The wines have seriously good aging potential and are made to embody vibrant acidity and a serious vein of tension that runs through the core of the wines. I absolutely loved the new wines by Robert. Check out his 2017 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which has an awesome, strony terroir and shows insanely good range. Just as good was the 2017 Brittan Vineyards ‘Cygnus Block’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which has awesome umami tones with the wet stone character and bright acidity. These are tremendous wines for any serious collector of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. Learn more about the great wines of Brittan Vineyards at http://www.brittanvineyards.com Here are the brilliant Pinot Noir releases by Brittan Vineyards.  

2017 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir-The Gestalt Block is located on a western facing hillside that is set on broken basalt. Showing a deep core, the 2017 ‘Gestalt Block’ by Brittan opens with layers of rose water and pretty red fruits that are woven together with suggestions of cinnamon and cloves, alongside some damp stone tones on the nose. The palate has wonderful bright acidity and a silky texture that truly entices. Deep red fruits dance with citrus rind accents, peat moss and the stony terroir on the palate. Truly gratifying to enjoy in its youth, the gorgeous, 2017 ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Brittan Vineyards ‘Basalt Block’ Pinot Noir- Truly impressive, the 2017 ‘Basalt Block’ Pinot Noir was sourced from south facing Pinot Noir vines set in fractured basalt. The stony terroir becomes evident on the nose, as a light dusting of salinity combines with bright red fruits, kumquat and shades of huckleberry on this impressive bouquet. The palate shows great tension and a seamless texture that makes this effortlessly glide across the mid—palate. Wet stone and cran-cherry combine with shades of clove, peat moss and blood orange zest flavors. Truly brilliant now to enjoy, the ‘Basalt Block’ Pinot Noir will cellar well for at least another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Brittan Vineyards ‘Cygnus Block’ Pinot Noir- The 2014 Cygnus Block is an exceptional Pinot Noir sourced from a block that is set on intrusion basalt and is sloped east, planted to Pinot Noir clone Swan selection, 420A. Pretty red raspberry aromatics meld with wet stone and shades of cran-orange on this evocative nose. The palate is both rich and elegant with layers of pomegranate seed and teaberry that brilliantly combine with wet stone and mineral tones. Showing brilliant terroir, this lithe and delicately textured Pinot Noir will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Brittan Vineyards ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- A new wine to their collection, the ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir is selected from various sites across his vineyard, set on broken Basalt. The dusting of volcanic earth really entices aromatically, as layers of red and dark fruits combine with the citrus rind and damp earthy undertones of the wine. The palate has a silky texture with a light salinity that runs through the core of red cherry, pomegranate seed and orange rind flavors. Really good at this stage in its development, the ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir will enjoy another ten to fifteen years in the cellar. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Instagram Live This Week

Friends, please join me on Instagram Live this week for a spectacular lineup of talents in the Washington, Oregon and California wine industries. Wednesday May 7th at 4PM I sit down with legendary Napa producer HALL as we talk about their new WALT releases.  

Friday May 8th at 4PM I chat with famed Willlamette Valley winemaker Robert Brittan of Brittan Vineyards, talking about their unique, stony Pinot Noirs. Then at 5PM join me with the talented J. Bookwalter winemaker Caleb Foster, as we talk about his awesome recent releases.

Saturday May 9th will be action packed with Oregon wine pioneer Rollin Soles of ROCO as we dive into his gorgeous sparkling wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir at 4PM. Then at 5PM catch me with NFL legend Damon Huard of Passing Time as he has a special case discount for his beautiful new Chardonnay, and we talk about his stunning Washington Cabernet Sauvignons. It’ll be a thrilling week at Washington Wine Blog with these famed producers 🍷🔥

PerUs

It has been roughly one year since I had the chance to review one of the thrilling new winery projects in Napa. PerUs is an ultra-premium producer of red wines as this winery utilizes the talents of superstar winemaker, Russell Bevan. He crafts some glorious wines from some great vineyards including Sugarloaf Mountain and Edcora Vineyard (high elevation site). PerUs was founded by Anmol Bhandari who was born and raised in New Delhi, immigrated to the United States and built a successful career in finance – initially at Goldman Sachs and later co-founding Cians Analytics based in New York – a company that provides research and analytical support to international financial institutions. Anmol was introduced to Dustin Wilson, Master Sommelier, and they both would travel to the Napa Valley to research both vineyards and winemakers. Dustin introduced Ammol to Russell Bevan, one of the world’s great winemakers. PerUs only made 30 cases in their first vintage, 2013.

The new PerUS wines were seriously spectacular across the board. These are wines have have mounds of depth and concentration but also surprisingly good finesse. These wines will also age gracefully for decades to come. I absolutely love the 2016 PerUs ‘Alessio’ Red Wine (WWB, 96)which is one of the great Napa blends that I have tried over the past year. The range imparted here is just sensational and the structure and depth is simply mind-boggling. Learn more about this famed boutique winery at https://www.peruswine.com/pages/home.php Here are the stunning new releases by PerUs.

2016 PerUs ‘Alessio’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Alessio’ is a stunning wine comprised of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, and the remainder Merlot crafted by superstar winemaker Russell Bevan. The gorgeous bouquet impress with layers of Arabica coffee bean, red cherry preserves, mocha, tar and sweet pipe tobacco that all take shape in the glass. The palate is dense and plush, showing a seamless quality that makes this effortlessly glide across the mid-palate. Layers of cocoa powder dusted red cherry, cigar box, blackberry compote and espresso bean flavors, with loamy undertones compete this gorgeous wine. The long, black fruit and mineral-driven finish, lingers long on the tongue. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, the 2016 ‘Alessio’ will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2040- 96

2017 PerUs ‘Bryn’ Red Wine-  The ‘Bryn’ is a stunning blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder Merlot. On the nose this takes on layers of creme de cassis, anise, Asian spices and loamy undertones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is hedonistic and highly gratifying, showing a seamless effect mid-palate as this glides once on the attack. Layers of blueberry compote and blackberry pie combine with dark chocolate shavings and Turkish coffee on this gorgeous palate. Full-bodied and gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, the ‘Bryn’ will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2040- 96

Adelsheim

One of the great Oregon estates that was founded back in 1971, Adelsheim’s roots began in the north of the Willamette Valley in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. Visionary David Adelsheim had previously worked in Beaune as well as The Eyrie Vineyards before starting his own winery in Oregon. Having spent time in Burgundy, he saw the potential for producing Pinot Noir in Oregon. Today Adelsheim now owns nearly 200 acres of land, with 180 acres of vineyards as they produce a brilliant range of wines — from Rose to stony Pinot Noir. Vineyard sites range from high elevation to low elevation, as well as volcanic and sedimentary soils. 

Last year I visited with their head winemaker, Gina Hennen, who has been at Adelsheim for 11 years, starting in the cellar and working her way up. Gina previously worked as semiconductor engineer for seven years in both Oregon and Dublin, Ireland. A former graduate of Reed College, Gina knew that her roots were in the Pacific Northwest and found her calling in winemaking.

Her new wines were brilliant across the board. I was very impressed with her 2017 Adelsheim ‘Staking Ground’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which has awesome richness and tension with earthy undertones. I was really impressed by her 2017 Adelsheim ‘Ribbon Springs Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which has soft red fruits and a silky texture, with marvelous terroir. Learn more about these beautiful new releases at http://www.adelsheim.com Here are the excellent new release wines by Adelsheim. 

2017 Adelsheim ‘Staking Claim’ Chardonnay- The ‘Staking Claim’ Chardonnay shows pear and marzipan tones that connect with the shades of wild mushroom on this expressive nose. The palate has great freshness and verve with bright lemon zest flavors that collide with vanilla cream and nutmeg infused sourdough bread. A complete wine, this is absolutely sensational in its youth and will cellar well for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Adelsheim ‘Ribbon Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The largest of Adelsheim’s estate vineyards, the ‘Ribbon Springs Vineyard’ is a 60 acre parcel located in the Ribbon Ridge AVA. Starfruit and toasted Macadamia nut with shades of challah bread all combine on the nose. The palate is rich and layered with a soft mouthfeel and a vibrant sense of minerality. The exceedingly long finish lingers. A striking effort, the 2017 ‘Ribbon Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay will cellar well for another decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Adelsheim ‘Chehalem Mountains’ Pinot Noir- Another great release from this storied estate, the 2017 Adelsheim ‘Chehalem Mountains’ Pinot Noir opens with a bouquet of red rose petals alongside guava and cran-orange tones that round out the impressive aromatics. Ripe and generous, the wine unveils its soft texture. Forward red fruits connect with minerals and a lasting finish. This is seriously good stuff for the price. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2016 Adelsheim ‘Breaking Ground’ Pinot Noir- Every bit outstanding, the 2016 ‘Breaking Ground’ Pinot Noir leads with its brightness and high-toned red fruits that dance with shades of Mandarin orange zest and copious minerals. Enjoyable in its youth, this dazzling wine will have another decade or more ahead of it in the cellar. If enjoying in its youth, give it a long decant to see it evolve. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Adelsheim ‘Boulder Bluff Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 ‘Boulder Bluff Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows lovely black truffle and peat moss tones that meld with a core of dark fruits on the nose. The palate is plush with vibrant acidity and a lingering finish that entices. Laden with wild blackberry and kirsch flavors, this outstanding wine will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Adelsheim ‘Ribbon Springs Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 ‘Ribbon Springs Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows off lighter damp earth and white truffle shavings that mingle with red fruits and citrus rind accents on this expressive nose. The palate has wonderful freshness and verve, with medium-bodied huckleberry and boysenberry flavors that dance with minerals, orange zest and earthy undertones. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this expressive effort will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2016 Adelsheim ‘Winderlea Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Known for outstanding Pinot Noir under their ‘Winderlea’ label, this great vineyard has produced outstanding, terroir-driven Pinot Noir wines for more than a decade. On the nose this take shape with red currants that mingle with damp earth and peat moss tones. The freshness and verve of the wine is downright awesome as you are greeted with loads of mouth-watering acidity on the attack. Gorgeous now, this will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2016 Adelsheim ‘Calkins Lane Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 Adelsheim ‘Calkins Lane Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is another great wine from this storied Willamette Valley estate. Pretty and high-toned red fruits and cinnamon infused orange zest tones combine with the lighter damp earthy tones on this expressive bouquet. The palate is ripe and generous, with copious red fruits, minerals and orange rind accents alongside seriously good length and verve. A complete wine, the 2016 Adelsheim ‘Calkins Lane Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will have a long life ahead of it in the cellar. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir Vertical Tasting

Last weekend was a blast as I met up with Clare Carver on Instagram Live and tasted through what is a stunning vertical of Oregon Pinot Noir. Prior to our interview, I had tasted through vintages 2014, 15, 16 and 18 of Big Table Farm’s ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir and was overwhelmed with each wine and how it was showing. It was very gratifying to go back in time and remember how the wine had changed compared to when I tried each bottling many years back. The vineyard itself is a 11.5 acre site located in the Eola- Amity Hills AVA that is planted to Dijon 667 and 777, Pommard and Wädenswil clones. I have long admired the complexity of this wine and the lovely earthy tones that Big Table Farm is able to create from this special site in the Willamette Valley.

As one of the first wine writers to feature Big Table Farm, the winery has gained national acclaim for their stories in the New York Times as well as Wine Spectator. Clare Carver and Brian Marcy spent many years in Napa before deciding to pick up their belongings and move to Oregon to start their working farm and winery. Brian made beautiful wines for Neyers winery, as I fondly recall the great Chardonnays and Syrahs that he made. Big Table Farm have even ventured their wine projects into the Walla Walla Rocks District AVA and have crafted a stunning new stony and savory Syrah from ‘The Funk Estate’. Clare is a hugely talented artist, as her beautiful artwork appears on each bottle. She makes each bottle into a work of art, importing special paper from Italy and then hand-labelling each piece.

Brian Marcy has been steadily making a name for himself as one of the top winemakers in Oregon. I was floored with all of the wines, none more so than his 2014 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 96) which delivers incredible complexity and is really singing now, having at least another decade to go. The tightrope between tertiary and primary tones really makes this wine sing. The 2015 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 95) is a delight to savor right now, with a great core of acidity and slightly less tertiary tones than the glorious 2014. One thing is certain —these are Pinot Noirs that are made for serious Pacific Northwest wine collectors. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.bigtablefarm.com/ Here are the notes from my vertical tasting of the Big Table Farm ‘Pellos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir.

2014 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Don’t let the whimsical truck tire on the label fool you — the 2014 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is a complex, masterful effort by superstar winemaker Brian Marcy. The nose is a journey across a deft tightrope of ternary damp earth and white truffle crudo notes that combine with shades of boysenberry preserves and salted charcuterie that all take shape in the glass. The palate has remarkable freshness despite its age, with wonderful peat moss and damp earth tones that combine with a core of kirsch, wild blackberry cobbler and citrus rind tones on this complex attack. The silky texture effortlessly makes this glide across the mid-palate, giving off a weightless effect. A light beam of salinity runs through the core of the wine, bringing added enjoyment. Simply put, this is complete wine that is absolutely singing right now and will prove drinking enjoyment for years to come. Drink 2020-2030- 96

2015 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The silky and seductive, yet beautifully restrained 2015 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is showing marvelously now at the five year mark. The nose is simply astounding and brings you back to the glass for more enjoyment. Red rose petals deftly combine with Mandarin orange zest, bulls blood, peat moss and shades of Hoisin sauce with wet stone accents on this decadent nose. The palate is fresh, vibrant and has gorgeous layers of pretty red fruits that sit with suggestions of cardamom, kumquat rind, wild mushroom and wild blackberry jam. Fresh and vibrant, with a downright pillowy texture, the 2015 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is drinking marvelously right now and has another decade to go. Drink 2020-2030- 95

2016 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- I absolutely adore the 2016 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir which is so fresh and vibrant as if it was released several days ago. A slight dusting of salinity runs through shades of huckleberry and Bing cherry tones that are woven together with underbrush and forest floor accents which all aromatically sing in unison. The palate is plush, showing off very bright red fruits and peat moss tones that combine with boysenberry and bulls blood, with Satsuma orange zest accents on the palate. The combination of verve and weight mid-palate is exceptional. A long-ager, the 2016 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos-Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir has a long way to go — but is simply irresistible right now. Drink 2020-2032- 95

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

Clos Solene

Today we head down south and visit one of the outstanding estates out of Paso Robles. Clos Solene is an inspired story fueled by the love of two people who founded this outstanding winery. Guillaume Fabre met the love of his life, Solene Fabre and they both eventually settled in Paso Robles. Fast forward to today, the Fabre Family is now a family of five: Clémentine (their oldest daughter), Jean (their middle son), and Juliette (their youngest daughter). Guillaume has named all his favorite wines after his children – Sweet Clémentine, Cuvée Jean and the arrival of Cuvée Juliette in 2019. After purchasing an estate in 2017, the family lives at the farmhouse on the property, as their boutique winery lies the west side of Paso Robles in the heart of the Willow Creek District.

The new wines were simply outstanding across the board. The 2017 Clos Solene ‘Fleur de Solene’ Red Wine (WWB, 94) is a dense, monstrous wine that has incredible depth and concentration but also very good poise. This is one that will cellar well for a decade or more. Learn more about these beautiful new wines at https://www.clossolene.com Here are the outstanding new release wines by Clos Solene.

2017 Clos Solene ‘Fleur de Solene’ Red Wine- The ‘Fleur de Solene’ is a compelling blend of Syrah (40%), Cabernet Sauvignon (34%) and Grenache (26%). Deep violets and rich dark fruits with espresso bean and dark chocolate shavings greet you on the nose. The palate is beautifully balanced, showing a great combination of tension and richness. Layers of roasted dates, milk chocolate, coffee grounds and blackberry compote all collide on the palate. The wonderful sense of minerality keeps everything right in line. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2017 Clos Solene ‘Harmonie’ Red Wine- A blend of 67% Grenache with smaller portions of Syrah and Mourvedre, the ‘Harmonie’ is an awesome new wine by Clos Solene. On the nose this shows layers of ripe red fruits with underbrush, milk chocolate and suggestions of roasted figs that all take shape in the glass. The palate has great freshness and a silky texture, delivering layers of red cherry cordial, blackberry compote, blueberry pie and coffee ground flavors, with a graphite edge. Light tannins and a long finish complete this sumptuous bottling that is best enjoyed over the next decade or so. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2017 Clos Solene ‘Hommage A Nos Pairs’ Red Wine- Essentially a Syrah wine with just a hint of Grenache and Viognier, this wine pays tribute to those who have inspired winemaker Guillaume Fabre. The wine was aged in 50% new oak (320L barrels) for 21 months. prior to bottling. Gobs of blueberry compote and blackberry pie greet you on the nose, with espresso bean, tar and dark chocolate tones playing second fiddle. The palate is dense and plush, but also shows a wonderfully vibrant acidity and loads of lip-smacking acidity. A faint dusting of kumquat zest combines with dark cherry cordial, Turkish coffee, roasted figs and suggestions of chocolate cake on this simply gorgeous palate. Simply outstanding to savor in its youth, the 2017 ‘Hommage A Now Pairs’ will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 95

Pearl and Stone

One of the outstanding boutique wineries that remains under the radar, Pearl and Stone is a downright killer Washington producer of red wine that focuses on high quality blends that show both richness and poise. founded in 2013, and utilizes the winemaking prowess of Chris Stone, Rob Wesorick and Paul Ribary. The new wines are from the warm 2016 vintage and were outstanding across the board. Pearl and Stone crafts their wines from some great vineyards in Washington including The Two Blondes, Olsen and Boushey Vineyards. The wines are also a really good value at around 30-40 dollars. 

I absolutely love their new Rose, the 2019 Pearl and Stone ‘Unemployment Beach’ Rose (WWB, 91) which is named after a small beach in the Snoqualmie area and this wine makes you want to have a glass overlooking the majesty of the beach with the Cascade Mountains set in the background. The silky texture and delicate flavors work marvelously here. Check out the 2017 Pearl and Stone ‘Wandering’ Red Wine (WWB, 92) which has great chocolate tones and a lovely expression of Merlot, with a fantastic finish. Learn more about these beautiful new wines at https://www.pearlandstonewine.com/ Here are the great new wines by Pearl and Stone. 

2019 Pearl and Stone ‘Unemployment Beach’ Rose- Made from 100% Cabernet Franc vines, the ‘Unemployment Beach’ shows pretty peach pit and rose water tones that mingle with bring Yakima cherry on this evocative nose. The palate is soft, round and generous, with great length, as the wine delivers bright watermelon, strawberry and melon flavors alongside good brightness. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Pearl and Stone ‘Old Rickety’ White Wine- This 100% Grenache Blanc wine has lovely acidity with a soft texture. While not exactly brimming with flavor, the lip-smacking acidity and lighter kiwi, starfruit and melon tones really combine nicely. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2017 Pearl and Stone ‘Mailbox Peak’ Red Wine- The ‘Mailbox Peak’ is a blend of primarily Merlot and Cabernet franc, with a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon (6%) added to the mix. This has a very warm vintage Right Bank feel, with its layers of cocoa powder dusted red cherry and loamy terroir that mingle with the sagebrush and red bell pepper undertones. The silky texture entices as this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Pearl and Stone ‘Wandering’ Red Wine- The ‘Wandering’ is a great blend of Merlot (54%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (39%) with just a touch of Cabernet Franc added. Fresh and vibrant, with a silky texture, the wine unveils layers of black fruits woven together with damp earth, milk chocolate and black tea tones on the palate. With wonderful length, I can see this cellaring well for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Pearl and Stone ‘Resolution Peaks’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Resolution Peaks’ is a silky blend of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (85%) with smaller portions Merlot and Cabernet Franc that was all sourced from the Columbia and Yakima Valleys. The palate is jam-packed full of ripe black fruits that mingle with chocolate and sagebrush tones. I love the typicality of the Dionysus Cabernet here. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Pearl and Stone ‘Resolution Peaks’ Red Wine- A silky blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon with equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2017 ‘Resolution Peaks’ starts off with sagebrush, blackberry pie and mocha tones on the nose. The palate is well-balanced with a silky texture. Layers of black fruits are woven together with sagebrush, coffee grounds and shades of espresso bean on the palate. Really good right now, I can see this beautiful wine cellaring for another decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 92

Walla Walla Vintners

As we continue our journey through Walla Walla Wine Month we bring you a Walla Walla mainstay with a long history, as Walla Walla Vintners is the town’s eighth bonded winery. Originally founded in 1995, the current proprietors, Scott and Nici Haladay, were first introduced to Walla Walla Vintners in 2017. Already familiar with the historic winery, they were excited to get the chance to be the new stewards of the iconic red barn and Cut Bank Estate vineyard as Scott comes from a technology background and Nici is a licensed nurse. 

Their winemaker Derrek Vipond, is a native Washingtonian who started his career at Walla Walla Community College in the Enology and Viticulture program. After completing his education with a degree from Oregon State University in Fermentation Science, Derrek worked several harvests across the globe before eventually moving back to Walla Walla and joining Walla Walla Vintners in January 2019. Their estate vineyard, the ‘Cut Bank Vineyard’ is set in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains at 1467 ft. along the Mill Creek Valley.

Derrek’s new wines were beautiful across the board, including their entry level red wine, the 2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Red Blend’ Red Wine (WWB, 90) which is sourced from the Columbia Valley and has a good combination of freshness and ripeness. I totally loved their 2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Cut Bank Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 92) as this has some great cellaring potential and has really great tension and varietal typicity. Learn more about these great new releases at https://wallawallavintners.com Here are my reviews of the new wines by Walla Walla Vintners. 

2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Red Blend’ Red Wine- The 2017 ‘Red Blend’ is a melange of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 30% Cabernet Franc with smaller portions Merlot and Syrah. The palate is medium-bodied with straightforward black fruit flavors with chocolate undertones. This is really well-made stuff that is meant to be enjoyed in the short-term. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Ripe and generous, the 2017 Walla Walla Vintners Cabernet Sauvignon has lovely herbal undertones that mingle with shades of sagebrush, tar and blackberry compote. Lightly tannic, this well-balanced wine will cellar well over the next seven plus years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Waliser Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- This Walla Walla Valley bottling shows violets that combine with shades of blueberry and Bing cherry on the nose. The mouthfeel entices as layers of black and blue fruits emerge, with mineral and a light tannins that line this wine. Well-structured, this elegant style Cabernet Franc will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2028- 91

2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Sagemoor Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Sagemoor Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon has beautiful layers of tobacco leaf and sagebrush that combine with the rich dark fruits on the nose. There palate is elegant with medium to full-bodied dark fruit flavors with chocolate fudge and espresso bean undertones. Drink 2020-2028- 91

2017 Walla Walla Vintners ‘Cut Bank Estate Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Cut Bank Estate Vineyard’ is a limited production bottling by this storied estate, and is set at nearly 1500 feet elevation. The palate shows a good degree of balance with medium to full-bodied dark fruit, pipe tobacco and chocolate covered espresso bean flavors, with medium tannins. Give this beautiful wine another year to soften. Drink 2021-2032- 92

Black Kite

I always love finding out about great new wineries up and down the west coast. In truth, there are simply too many Oregon, Washington and California wineries to keep track of, but I am constantly searching for ones that catch my eye. Founded in 2003, Black Kite focuses on Burgundian varietals to craft single vineyard expressions of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Jeff Gaffner joined Black Kite as consulting winemaker in 2005, having a strong pedigree, training under legendary producer Dick Arrowood of Arrowood Vineyards. winemaker in northern California for 35 years. As all as the Black Kite wines, Jeff has his own label, Saxon Brown, which produces a variety of site-specific wines. His new Pinot Noirs were excellent across the board. I absolutely loved his 2017 Black Kite ‘Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which has exquisite terroir from this very special site in the Sonoma Coast. Learn more about this great producer of Pinot Noir at https://blackkitecellars.com Here are the great new releases by Black Kite.

2017 Black Kite ‘Soberanes Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, this shows pretty salted red fruits with shades of nutmeg and orange zest not he nose. The palate mimics the nose with the bright red fruits that mingle with saline drenched citrus rind and earthy undertones. With lovely viscosity and tension, this beautiful wine will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Black Kite ‘Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- One of the famed sites in the Sonoma Coast AVA, the ‘Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is world renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Lovely cranberry and orange rind, dusted with cinnamon and cloves fill the nose. The palate has great freshness with mouth-watering acidity and medium-bodied red fruits that dance with shades of salted blood orange and minerals. Seriously good right now, the 2017 Black Kite’ Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will cellar well for another decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Black Kite ‘Sierra Mar Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Located in the Santa Lucia Highlands, the ‘Sierra Mar Vineyard’ has a very strong Pacific Ocean influence. Weighing in at 14.6% alcohol, this shows complex aromas of nutmeg and cardamom that are woven together with wild blackberry coulis, and salted oranges that all come together in the glass. The palate has great viscosity and tension with bright red fruits that collide with minerals and a lovely sense of salinity. This is gorgeous to enjoy right now as the ‘Sierra Mar Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will cellar for another decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Black Kite ‘Kite’s Rest’ Pinot Noir- This Anderson Valley AVA bottling shows off a silky texture with good range on the palate, from pomegranate seed to blood orange and damp soil tones, alongside a whiff of smoke. Rich and generous on the mouth, this awesome new Pinot Noir will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Interview with Cameron Parry, Director of Winegrowing at Groth Vineyards

One of the electric winemakers in Napa, Cameron Parry produces a gorgeous range of wines for Groth Vineyards and has been there since 2014. Formerly with Chateau Montelena, Parry sits down with me, talking about his background, his gorgeous new releases as well as what wines really move him currently. I think you will really enjoy hearing his story in wine. Here is my exclusive interview with Cameron Parry, Director of Winemaking at Groth Vineyards.

WWB: What were some of your initial inspirations in becoming a winemaker?  

CP: Well, I started home-brewing beer in college and that lead me into a love of fermentation.  I was studying Biology, Microbiology, and Spanish (yes, I was a triple major), and after getting into brewing, I started to tweak my studies to include more yeast and fermentation related topics.  Not having grown up with a lot of wine in the house, I didn’t know much about it, so my last semester in college, I took a wine appreciation course – basically I wanted to be able to go to a restaurant and not feel like a dummy when handed the wine list.  As that class progressed, it clicked.  Here was something I could do with my life.  After finishing that course and graduating, I started looking for a harvest internship in California (I’m from New Mexico).  Eventually I got a position with Gundlach-Bundschu in Sonoma where my career path became cemented.    I worked for two years in several other cellars after that first harvest before going to UC Davis to pursue a Master’s Degree studying Viticulture and Enology.

 WWB: How did you decide to come to Groth? 

CP: Prior to joining Groth in the summer of 2014 I was the winemaker at Chateau Montelena, and had an amazing array of experiences there.  The decision to leave Montelena and join Groth was not an easy one, but I was at a point in my career where I wanted a change and also more responsibility.  The position at Groth offered just that – responsibility not just for winemaking/production, but the vineyards as well.  This type of position where the winemaker oversees vineyard operations are rather rare and offer a level of global control that allows for the crafting of the wines in the vineyard and not just the cellar.  After all, if it isn’t in the vineyard, it’ll never be in the glass.  

 WWB: You make some beautiful white wines that have really good richness and finesse. What are some of the challenges in making Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay with the long series of warm vintages beginning with 2012?  

CP: Warm vintages are just part and parcel with growing grapes in California.  It is our warm dry climate that sets Napa apart from other winegrowing regions around the world.  This warm weather is the biggest driver of our style of Sauvignon blanc, where we focus on big rich fully ripe flavors that are hard to realize in cooler climates.  The tricky bit is not letting them get over-ripe where you lose the freshness and the fruit character changes from ripe to desiccated.  This requires a lot of time walking and tasting out in the vineyard to catch that optimal picking window.

 WWB: Your 2016 Groth ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 95) is a head-turning, wine that is not only very rich but has remarkable tension and finesse. Can you talk about crafting this very special wine?  

CP: Sometime the stars align and you get vintages like the ’16 where it all just goes right.  The section of vineyard where the Reserve Cab comes from is a truly unique and special place.  The vines have an incredible natural balance, rarely needing to be hedged; they set smaller clusters with smaller berries, resulting in greater concentration in the wine.  In the cellar, we continually build on our experiences previous vintages, making tweaks and adjustments – it is an ever evolving process, there is no ‘formula.’  For me, with wines like the ’16 Reserve, it’s what isn’t there that makes them so special. When you taste the ’16 Reserve, there isn’t anything poking out.  No big coarse tannin, no bitter or astringent distractions, no big mercaptan greenness, no puckering acidity or cloying sweetness, no ethanol ‘heat’.  It is the balance in this wine that makes it so special. There is abundant tannin, but it is velvety.  There is firm acidity, but it is juicy and refreshing.   There is a savory element, but it is complexing and complementary to the ripe fruit.  There is barrel influence, but it is well integrated.  Everything just works.

 WWB: What are some of your favorite wines of the world? What is your cellar like?  

CP: My cellar is a bit of a mess at the moment and in need of a major reorganization.  I have so many favorite wines for so many reasons.  Champagne is a staple and exploring through all the small producers is great fun.  Chardonnay is in my blood after 10 years with Chateau Montelena, so I enjoy Chablis, white Burgundy, and domestic producers that follow a cleaner, purer, expression of that grape.  On the red side, St. Julian features prominently.  You’ll also find a handful of fun interesting wines from Italy, Spain, Chile, and South Africa. The bulk of my cellar is Napa Cab, but that’s to be expected I suppose. 

Instagram Live This Week

Instagram Live This Week

Friends, please join us this week as we offer nearly unprecedented access to some of the world’s best winemakers in their respective regions. Simply join me, washingtonwineblog, on Instagram for all the action!
Wednesday April 29th at 4PM Pacific please join me with L’Ecole No. 41 founder Marty Clubb, as we discuss the latest great new wines from this storied Walla Walla house.
Friday May 1st we have a triple-header of action, starting with up and coming Walla Walla winery Lagana Cellars at 3PM Pacific. Next we will sit down with NFL legend Drew Bledsoe and superstar winemaker Josh McDaniels at 4PM, talking about their amazing new Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. At 5PM Pacific I sit down with legendary Oregon winemaker Tony Rynders, as we talk about his great value Child’s Play wines as well as one of the world’s great White Pinot Noirs and his awesome new lineup of Pinot Noirs.
Finally, Saturday May 2nd at 4PM Pacific I sit down with one of the world’s Chardonnay masters, David Ramey, as we talk about his winemaking process and his new Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet wines. Looking forward to seeing you all on Instagram for all the action! 

2020 Tempranillo Report: The Top Tempranillo Wines in North America

Friends, today marks our inaugural Tempranillo Report, highlighting the top Tempranillo wines made in North America. I have long admired the top Tempranillo wines from Spain. Having visited top estates in Ribera del Duero and Rioja, revered world stars like Pingus, Contador and Vina Tondonia have always captured my attention. It is no surprise that Tempranillo is considered to be Spain’s noble grape.

Clearly an underdog grape in North America, today you can find some incredible examples of the varietal — some made in a similar style to those in Spain and others made quite differently. ‘I see Tempranillo a bit differently,’ says eminent vigneron Christophe Baron. ‘Tempranillo is a great alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon when ordering a rich steak. The reason is the balance in the wine.’ Speaking with Christophe I was initially surprised by his comment — but what he said make perfect sense. Considering the level of quality that top Tempranillo can bring, we need to consider Tempranillo more seriously as a varietal.

Baron produced the top Tempranillo wines in North America, with his 2017 Cayuse Vineyards Impulsivo’ Tempranillo (WWB, 97) and 2017 No Girls ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Tempranillo (WWB, 96) sitting at the high table with their insanely good stony profiles, Umami and gorgeous terroir and finesse. The other top Tempranillo wine I tasted was from Red Mountain, the gorgeous 2017 Force Majeure ‘Estate’ Tempranillo (WWB, 96) which is a dense, massive, monster of a wine that has vibrant acidity and a downright voluptuous mouthfeel.

Southern Oregon produced some beautiful wines, none more so than the brilliant 2016 Reustle ‘Winemaker’s Reserve’ Tempranillo (WWB, 92) which is deep, burly and silky smooth once on the palate. As for California Tempranillo, Epoch produced some glorious releases in 2014 and 2015. The talented Jordan Fiorentini weighs in on her wines, noting that her 2014 ‘is an ‘example of the variety in a warmer vintage where tannins are softer.’ The 2014 and 2015 Epoch Tempranillo (both WWB, 93) showed some differences but were equally good, rich and decadent examples of the varietal. I think that Tempranillo has a bright future in North America considering the quality that I was able to taste through these varying regions. Here are my tasting notes from my inaugural 2020 Tempranillo Report.

Oregon 

Willamette Valley:

2015 Raptor Ridge ‘Reserva’ Tempranillo- Sourced from the Rogue Valley, this ‘Reserva’ Tempranillo shows good range aromatically from cedar to milk chocolate tones and bright red fruits that all take shape in the glass. The palate is medium to full-bodied delivering bright acidity alongside wild blackberry compote, milk chocolate  tar and shades of menthol. This is outstanding Tempranillo that will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2016 Vidon ‘Explorer’ Tempranillo- This excellent new Tempranillo bottling shows forward dark cherry with loganberry flavors and damp earth tones with light tannins that line the fruit. The fruit is bright, as is the acidity, as the citrus rind accents and damp earth tones add complexity. Drink 2020-2027- 90

Southern Oregon:

2016 2 Hawk ‘Darow Series’ Tempranillo- The 2016 ‘Darow Series’ shows better richness than their entry level bottling, with toasty oak that melds with the dark fruit and chocolate aromatics. The soft texture entices as the wine yields layers of chocolate spice cake and kirsch flavors with light tannins. Enjoy this over the next several years while the good core of acidity remains. Drink 2020-2025- 89

2017 Abacela ‘Fiesta’ Tempranillo- The ‘Fiesta’ Tempranillo shows forward dark fruit and cocoa powder flavors with a good freshness. Enjoy this excellent bottling over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 88

2015 Abacela ‘Reserve’ Tempranillo- The nose is exceedingly good with layers of chocolate woven together with pipe tobacco, leather and damp earth that all combine in the glass. The palate has a polished texture with ripe blackberry cobbler and leather tones that mingles with shades of blood orange and bulls blood. Great to enjoy in its youth this great older wine will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2015 Belle Fiore Tempranillo- Sourced from their 31 acre estate vineyard, the 2015 Belle Fiore Tempranillo shows good acidity with citrus rind accents that meld with the ripe red and dark fruits on the palate. The long finish accentuates this great new, well-balanced Tempranillo bottling that is best enjoyed over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 Delfino Tempranillo- Forward and generous, the 2016 Delfino Tempranillo opens with slightly sweet red and dark fruits with chocolate fudge tones and a light dusting of salinity. Enjoy in the short-term. Drink 2020-2025- 89

2017 Foris Tempranillo- This Rogue Valley , medium-bodied Tempranillo shows bright acidity with juicy red and black fruits with citrus rind and earthy undertones on the palate. While not having the fullest mouthfeel, the bright acidity really shines here. Drink 2020-2025- 89

2017 J. Scott Cellars Tempranillo- Rich and layered, the 2016 J. Scott Tempranillo has a beautifully perfumed nose with layers of chocolate and sagebrush that collide with smoky undertones on the nose. The freshness of the wine is awesome, as cocoa powder and smoked meats mingle with minerals and shades of wild blackberry cobbler on the palate. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2015 Kriselle Tempranillo- Inky in the glass, the 2015 Kriselle Tempranillo shows nice scorched earth tones alongside shades of chocolate, blackberry pie and tobacco leaf that all take shape in the glass. The palate is bright, with good acidity and balance. Medium-bodied dark fruit flavors mingle with cocoa powder and earthy undertones on the palate. This is well-made Tempranillo that is best enjoyed over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 Names Family Vineyards Tempranillo- The 2016 Naumes Family Vineyards Tempranillo shows toasty oak tones that mingle with shades of pipe tobacco and leather, with lighter dark fruits on the nose. The palate is lacking a bit of weight but has good freshness with blackberry and milk chocolate flavors, with lighter damp earth tones. Enjoy over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 88

2014 Paul O’Brien Tempranillo- The 2014 Paul O’Brien Tempranillo shows medium-bodied red currant and wild blackberry cobbler flavors that mingle with minerals and a light tannic backbone. What this misses in mid-palate weight, it makes up for it with its smooth texture and brightness. Drink 2020-2025- 88

2016 Paul O’Brien ‘Cask 11’ Tempranillo- The ‘Cask 11’ opens with toasty oak that connects with the dark fruits and light milk chocolate tones. The palate has good freshness with medium to full-bodied kirsch, leather and mocha flavors that meld with light tannins that frame the wine. Enjoy this excellent new wine over the next seven plus years. Drink 2020-2027- 90

2016 Reustle ‘Winemaker’s Reserve’ Tempranillo- The 2016 ‘Winemaker’s Reserve’ Tempranillo is a simply awesome new wine by Steve Reustle. Layers of tobacco leaf with Arabica coffee bean, blackberry cobbler and lighter blueberry compote tones fill this expressive nose. The palate is polished showing a voluptuous texture and layers of sweet pipe tobacco, leather, mocha and tar with lighter blue fruit tones. Expressive and showing good length, this beautiful wine will cellar well for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2017 Reustle ‘Estate Selection’ Tempranillo- The 2017 ‘Estate Selection’ is beautifully textured with smoky and chocolate tones that collide with layers of black fruits and toasty oak on the palate. Showing good freshness and weight, I can imagine this cellaring well for a decade. Drink 2020-2030- 90

2017 Reustle ‘Winemaker’s Reserve’ Tempranillo- Sourced from the Prayer Rock Vineyards, the ‘Winemaker’s Reserve’ opens with mocha, tar and scorched earthy aromatic undertones that take shape in the glass. The palate is lightly tannic, delivering layers of smoked brisket, espresso bean, mocha and tar. Seriously good right now, this thing has at least a decade in front of it. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2016 Roxy Ann Winery Tempranillo- Toasty oak wraps around aromas of damp earth and shades of milk chocolate on the nose. The palate is soft, round and generous, showing a lovely sense of mouthfeel. A bit lacking of flavor, tones of milk chocolate and sandalwood, with faint citrus rind accents, become the most dominant. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2017 Ryan Rose Tempranillo- A micro-production winery, the 2017 Ryan Rose Tempranillo is one of the exciting wines of its kind in the Rogue Valley. Showing off its dense core, the Tempranillo has a great degree of richness with layers of blackberry compote, blueberry pie and shades of dark licorice and cocoa powder flavors the all dance in unison. Enticing in its youth, this will cellar well for the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 Pioneer Wines ‘Oregon’ Tempranillo- The texture is really good here with generous black fruits and a good amount of acidity to make things work. Fruity and delicious, enjoy this over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 89

2016 Schmidt Family Vineyards ‘Estate’ Tempranillo- Forward and juicy with medium to full-bodied dark fruits and chocolate flavors, this is one to enjoy over the next several years. The length and mouthfeel of this wine really combine brilliantly. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 Valley View Tempranillo- This Rogue Valley AVA bottling shows jammy dark fruits with chocolate cake on the nose. The palate has good freshness with medium-bodied blackberry and huckleberry flavors with chocolate and smoky undertones. Drink 2020-2025- 89

Walla Walla Valley AVA:

2017 No Girls ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Tempranillo- Right away you are drawn to the beautiful stony terroir of the 2017 No Girls Tempranillo as Hoisin sauce and Umami tones collide with ripe blackberries, Mandarin orange rind and underbrush tones on this exotic nose. The palate is highly elegant, showing off a silky texture and wonderfully plush mouthfeel. This seamless wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate delivering a huge range of flavors —from green olive tapenade and iron to huckleberry and charcuterie flavors. This finishes long with layers of black fruits, green olive tapenade and dusty minerals. A complete wine, the 2017 No Girls Tempranillo will cellar well over the next decade, picking up earthy, tertiary tones as it ages gracefully. Drink 2020-2030- 96

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Impulsivo’ Tempranillo- One of the iconic Tempranillo bottlings in North America, the 2017 ‘Impulsivo’ Tempranillo is a spectacular effort by superstar vigneron Christophe Baron. Sourced from the ‘En Chamberlin Vineyard’, the Tempranillo takes the lead with layers of Umami, bacon fat, cigar ash and green olive tapenade woven together with shades of blackberry compote and salted meats on this complex bouquet. The gorgeous aromatics bring you back to the glass for more indulgence. Once on the attack, the silky mouthfeel effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. The elegance of this wine is truly profound, as wild blackberry jam and Satsuma orange zest flavors meld with shades of Umami, bacon fat, tar and Yakima cherry on this complex palate. Wait for the exceedingly long finish that adds a brilliant crescendo to top off this masterpiece. Drink 2020-2030- 97

Washington

2017 DAMA Wines Tempranillo- Ripe blackberry with tobacco leaf and leather mark the nose. The palate has plenty of freshness and verve, with a silly mouthfeel. Layers of chocolate and sweet pipe tobacco with minerals and graphite tones all combine marvelously on the palate with the core of dark fruits. I really enjoy the length and elegance of this wine. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2017 Force Majeure ‘Estate’ Tempranillo- Sourced from their one block planted in the Force Majeure Vineyard on Red Mountain, the 2017 Force Majeure ‘Estate’ Tempranillo opens with lovely earthy tones that combine with Hoisin sauce, milk chocolate and shades of wild blackberry preserves that all meld together in the glass. The textural elements to the wine are downright scintillating considering the varietal. Showing amazing weight and verve, this moderately tannic wine delivers black currants that mingle with smoked brisket and suggestions of blueberry compotes and milk chocolate flavors. This is truly one of a kind. Beautiful and every bit hedonistic, yet marvelously balanced in its youth, give this at least a two hour decant if enjoying in its nascent phase. Drink 2020-2038- 96 

2016 Force Majeure Tempranillo- The truly outstanding 2016 Force Majeure Tempranillo is a one of a kind bottling by Todd Alexander. Needing a one hour decant to fully be expressive, once aroused this slowly unveils mocha, tar and scorched earth aromatics that meld with shades of Black Forest Cake on this expressive bouquet. The palate is silky smooth, with light tannins that line a deep core of dark fruits with smoked meats, leather and blueberry compote undertones. Complex and rich, this decadent, one of a kind bottling will cellar well for decades to come — but is completely irresistible right now following a long decant. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2015 Idilico ‘Reserva’ Tempranillo- This ‘Reserva’ Tempranilo by Idilico is crafted from Ribera del Duero clones winemaker Javier Alfonso helped import and have been planting throughout the Yakima Valley. Truly having a unique background, the vines include a Tinta del Pais selection from Ribera del Duero and a Tinta de Toro from Toro. The nose shows gobs of toasty oak that wraps around blackberry cobbler, mocha and tar that all take shape in the glass. The palate has good balance, with a soft texture. Generous oak rounds layers of roasted figs, milk chocolate and red cherry with sagebrush undertones on the palate. While this might be lacking a bit in mid-palate ripeness, the texture and subtle tones of the wine really shine. Truly unique, this one of a kind wine will cellar well over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2026- 90

2016 Saviah Tempranillo-The 2016 Saviah Tempranillo shows wonderful smoky tones on the nose with ripe dark fruits and a touch of chocolate. The palate mimics the nose with the chocolate tones coming on stronger, as the silky texture beautifully combines with the deep core of smoked meats and dark fruits. Fantastic to savor right now, the 2016 Saviah Tempranillo will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Saviah Tempranillo- The 2017 Saviah Tempranillo is another seriously good bottling by the talented Richard Funk. On the nose this takes on shades of Umami with smoky undertones that combine with the core of blackberry cordial and shades of green olive that all take shape in the glass. The palate has really good freshness and verve, with medium to full-bodied black tea, wild blackberry cobbler, smoked meats and coffee ground undertones. Seriously good right now, the 2017 Saviah Tempranillo will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

California

Paso Robloes: 

2014 Epoch Tempranillo- Having only 1% Grenache blended in, the wine is almost entirely sourced from the famed Paderewski Vineyard, the wine was aged for 19 months in French oak barrels and puncheons (80% new) before bottling. Layers of intense black fruits mingle with shades of tobacco leaf and chocolate on the nose. The palate is intense with dense blackberries that mingle with blueberry liquor and exotic spices. With great viscosity, this dense, monster of a Tempranillo will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2015 Epoch Tempranillo- This massive wine was aged in 80% new French oak for 19 months before bottling. The wine has a really good sense of elegance right now, as a stark contrast to the 2014 Epoch Tempranillo. While obviously dense, the silky texture really impresses as layers of creosote and ripe blackberries collide with suggestions of pipe tobacco and huckleberry on the palate. Rich and mineral-driven, with great length, the 2015 Epoch Tempranillo will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 93

Ramey Wine Cellars

Sitting across from one of the world’s Chardonnay masters, I caught a large grin that ran across his face. We had both reached for one of his 2011 Chardonnays. ‘These age so well’ I said. ‘Yes they do,’ David concurred. It was last summer that I had the chance to taste with David and try many of his older Chardonnay and Cabernet bottlings. David had recently had a large feature in Wine Spectator but that achievement obviously did not leave him any less humble.

David is very proud of his family who now work with him as part of his team at Ramey Wine Cellars. As I was tasting with him I couldn’t but help be reminded of my first experiences trying Ramey wines with their incredible 2005 vintage that was spectacular across the board. At the time I was thrilled with California Chardonnay but the Ramey Chardonnays had something a little different. The combination of brightness with gobs of minerality, lemon zest and earthy terroir did the trick for me —I was immediately blown away with these wines. 

This time I wouldn't be tasting with David due to the pandemic but the wines I tried were every bit as good as the last time I tasted the new Ramey lineup. I was once again blown away with their 2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which is saline driven and has a sterling minerality and bright lemon zest flavors. It is no surprise that I loved the 2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay (WWB, 95) which is a big Chardonnay with an incredible mouthfeel and wonderful richness. This beauty will cellar well for decades. Learn more about these beautiful wines at https://www.rameywine.com Here are my reviews of the incredible new wines by superstar winemaker David Ramey.

 2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay- Consistently great, the 2017 ‘Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay is another glorious, terroir-driven Chardonnay by famed producer David Ramey. Aged for twelve months in barrel (15% new) prior to bottling. The salty terror hits you immediately with saline drenched pear and nectarine aromatics that come together in the glass. The palate has a wonderful feeling of tension, with the vein of salinity that runs through the core of lemon zest, vanilla cream and green apple flavors, with suggestions of salted Marcona almond. This has all the terroir that you want in a great Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, as the 2017 Ramey ‘Sonoma Coast’ will have another decade of life in front of it. Drink 2020-2030- 93.

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Russian River Valley’ Chardonnay- The ‘Russian River Valley’ Chardonnay is sourced from a host of great vineyards in the Russian River Valley and is a gorgeous entry level wine by Ramey Wine Cellars. Aged for twelve months in French oak (15%) new prior to bottling, the Chardonnay shows suggestions of nutmeg and cloves that mingle with ripe pineapple and Pink lady apple on the nose. The sense of freshness and sterling tension is really good, as is the exceedingly long finish that lingers long on the tongue. Gorgeous to enjoy right now, the 2017 ‘Russian River Valley’ Chardonnay will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Woolsey Road Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The ‘Woolsey Road Vineyard’ is located in the Russian River AVA, the ‘Woolsey Road Vineyard parallels the River Road, as the Chardonnay aged for twenty months in roughly 25% new French oak prior to bottling. David Ramey planted Hyde-Wente budwood at this three acre vineyard. Right away you are drawn to the ripe pear and baked apple tones which mingle with suggestions of lemon zest and damp earth accents that all meld in the glass.The palate is full-bodied with a voluptuous mouthfeel. Layers of baking spices combine with lemon creme brulee, ripe mango and shades of Gravenstein apple and kumquat zest that all sing together. The exceedingly long and gratifying finish lingers long on the tongue. Fantastic in its youth, the 2017 ‘Woolsey Road Vineyard’ Chardonnay will cellar well for the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Westside Farms Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Simply spellbinding even in its youth, the 2017 ‘Westside Farms Vineyard’ Chardonnay is a glorious new wine by legendary producer David Ramey. Bright and intense aromatically, this takes on layers of salted pear that are woven together with peat moss and wild mushroom tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is marvelously textured, with a silky mouthfeel. Layers of bananas foster and damp earth combine with minerals, and poached pear with lemon zest all sing on the palate. The freshness of the wine continues to impress with gobs of mouth-watering acidity and tension  The length of the wine adds to the enjoyment,  as ttys stunning wine is only an infant right now and will provide drinking enjoyment for years to come. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Rochioli Vineyard’ Chardonnay- David Ramey sourced from the ‘Rochioli Vineyard’ for nearly fifteen years and this is now the third year that he has crafted a single vineyard bottling from this esteemed vineyard, located roughly a mile south of Ramey’s Westside Farms Vineyard. The ‘Rochioli Vineyard’ is planted to largely Dijon clones. Aromatically quite intense, the wine leads with layers of mango and pineapple alongside baking spices and damp earthy tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is brilliantly textured and has massive acidity which really entiices. Ripe banana and pineapple tones combine with peat moss, Granny Smith apple and kumquat zest on the palate. The combination of weight, length and acidity is sensational as this is a Chardonnay to sit and savor all of the complex, working components. While a delight to savor right now, the 2017 Ramey ‘Rochioli Vineyard’ Chardonnay will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Consistently one of the great Chardonnays produced in California, the 2017 ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay is another thrilling new bottling by the talented David Ramey. Sourced from this esteemed site in the Carneros AVA, the wine evokes a brilliant range of aromatics from bright pear and buttered popcorn to shades of pineapple upside-down cake and salted praline that all come together in the glass. The palate is rich and viscous, having great weight but a sterling tension that runs through the core of chard fruits that mingle with pineapple cream, ripe banana and nutmeg dusted Challah bread flavors. Wait for the exceedingly long finish that delights at the end. A gorgeous wine to enjoy right now, the 2017 ‘Hyde Vineyard’ will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2016 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The 2017 ‘Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay is an incredible effort from this famed site in the Russian River Valley. Sourced from vines planted in 1972, the ’Ritchie Vineyard stands squarely in the center of the Russian River AVA.  On the nose this takes on classy aromatics of baking spices and peat moss with layers of ripe orchard fruits and creme brulee tones that all mingle in the glass. The palate is wonderfully balanced with a seamless texture that makes this effortless glide across the mid-palate. Ripe mango and honeydew melon tones combine with shades of cinnamon dusted sourdough bred and lemon vanilla cream flavors. The vibrant minerality makes this nearly impossible to put down right now. Gorgeous in its youth, this brilliant new wine has a masisive aging potential ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Sonoma Coast’ Syrah-The 2017 ‘Sonoma Coast’ Syrah opens with a beautiful bouquet of smoked pork shoulder and Hoisin sauce that marvelously mingles with red cherry candy, red currents and shades of tobacco leaf that all come together in the glass. The palate is silky and layered, with a great freshness and saline streak. Ripe black fruits dance with saline drenched orange zest, guava and black tea on the palate. Seriously good right now, and showing excellent range and structure, the 2017 ‘Sonoma Coast’ Syrah will enjoy another decade of cellaring. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Ramey Wine Cellars Claret Red Wine-  Sourced from the North Coast, the wine is a great blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (44%) and Merlot (20%) with smaller portions Malbec, Petit Verdot and Syrah that was aged in French oak before bottling. The nose is quite perfumed with creme de cassis, blackberry jam and shades of coffee grounds that all come together in the glass. The palate has great verve and richness, with a light dusting of salinity that melds together with the good tension of the wine. Layers of dark fruits and cocoa powder, alongside leafy and herbal undertones complete this brilliant new wine. Satisfying to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘Claret’ will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Ayoub

One of the dazzling producers of Oregon Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that you might not have heard of, Ayoub is the brainchild of Mo Ayoub who has been producing world class Pinot Noir wines for more than a decade. Back in 2001 Mo Ayoub planted his namesake vineyard and began crafting his wines in 2004. Each Pinot Noir artfully showcases its individual site as these are highly memorable and terroir-driven Pinot Noir wines. Mo made the great decision to work with with one of the great winemaking talents in Oregon, consulting winemaker Robert Brittan. I’ve been enamored by Robert’s wines for years and his very special vineyard. Ayoub for years has made a thrilling wine from the Brittan Vineyard that showcases the outstanding stony terroir that is unique to this location.

I recently had the chance to review all of the new releases from this storied winery. The wines were every bit as good as they were from the 2017 vintage. Look to the simply magical 2018 Ayoub Vineyards Chardonnay (WWB, 94) which has a massive amount of freshness and verve, with plenty of exotic appeal. This is truly one of the great Chardonnay wines made in Oregon. Learn more about the beautiful Ayoub wines at https://www.ayoubwines.com Here are the great wines by Ayoub.

2018 Ayoub Chardonnay- The 2018 Ayoub Chardonnay is a gorgeous new bottling by the talented Mo Ayoub. Bright and showing tons of tension and minerality, the light dusting of salinity entices. Ripe Pazzaz apple and nutmeg alongside minerals and damp earthy tones all collide in the glass. The combination of freshness and viscosity is stunning with its intense citrus zest and lighter nutty and earthy undertones on the palate. Vibrant and full of life, the 2018 Ayoub Chardonnay will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2018 Ayoub ‘Memoirs’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Memoirs’ Pinot Noir is a brilliant wine made each year by Mo Ayoub that celebrates one of his family members. This year is a touching tribute to Mo’s brother, Moueness, who sadly passed away in 2019. The wine is a fitting memoir showing silky layers of bright red fruits with wet stone and citrus rind accents. Sensational right now to savor, this outstanding new wine will enjoy another decade of life ahead of it. Rest in peace Moueness. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Ayoub ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir is a sensational new wine by superstar winemaker Mo Ayoub. On the nose this takes on bright red fruits with black truffle shavings and peat moss undertones that all meld in the glass. On the attack you are greeted to a silky texture and wonderful elegance as this effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Cran-cherry and suggestions of white truffle and forest floor flavors combine with lovely citrus rind accents. A complete, wine, this gorgeous effort will enjoy decades of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2038- 95

2018 Ayoub ‘Estate Whole Cluster’ Pinot Noir- The seriously good 2018 Ayoub ‘Estate Whole Cluster’ Pinot Noir opens with spicy aromatics that combine with the core of rich red fruits and damp earth undertones on the nose. The palate has gobs of mouth-watering acidity with sulky tannins that line the core of red cherry, guava and cranberry flavors, alongside some earthy undertones. While I don’t enjoy this quite as well as the non-whole cluster wine, it is an awesome new Pinot Noir that will cellar well for another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 93

2018 Ayoub ‘Anonimo Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2018 ‘Anonimo Vineyard’ Pinot Noir by Ayoub shows a rich core of sour red fruits with shades of blood orange and peat moss on the palate. Lithe and layered, with a seriously good texture, this beautiful wine will cellar well for another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 93

2018 Ayoub ‘Brittan Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Brittan Vineyard’ is one of the unique sites in the Willamette Valley, set on broken basalt. The stony aromatics really entices as bright Bing cherry and guava aromatics combine with the citrus zest and wet stone tones on the nose. The palate is vibrant, showing layers of citrus rind and tart red fruits that both dance with the gorgeous tension and sense of stony terroir. A complete wine, this brilliant new bottling will cellar well for decades to come — but is completely irresistible in its youth. Drink 2020-2035- 94

Tranche

As we continue to celebrate some absolutely awesome wineries for Walla Walla Wine Month, we bring you a stellar lineup — from crisp Rose to deep and layered Cabernet Sauvignon. Tranche wines were originally based upon Rhône Valley varietals including their blended red, Pink Pape for their rosé and ‘Slice of Pape Blanc’ and ‘Pape’ wines of white and red varieties of the Rhône. Wines are sourced from their world class vineyard, the ‘Blue Mountain Vineyard’ which is a higher elevation site that has a host of varietals planted — everything from Cabernet Franc to Mourvedre.

At the helm is Andrew Trio who is far from home being a native of Perth, Australia. He began making wine in the Margaret River region. His formal education took place at the University of Adelaide, South Australia, where he studied Oenology. Andrew learned winemaking quickly and thoroughly, working in several well-known regions throughout Australia, as well as New Zealand, California and Europe, before finding a permanent home with Tranche in Walla Walla. Production wine Central Washington University. His experience working with Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling in New Zealand ignited his passion for white winemaking. This drew him to Walla Walla in 2012, where he joined the team at Tranche. 

The new wines were seriously good across the board. Look to an awesome new Rose, the 2019 Tranche ‘Pink Pape’ Rose (WWB, 91) which has wonderful finesse and a seriously good range of flavors. Even better is the glorious 2017 Tranche ‘Pape’ Red Wine (WWB, 93) which has awesome depth and concentration with a silky mouthfeel. This is a one of a kind Rhone blend that will cellar well for at least another decade. Learn more about these beautiful wines athttps://www.tranche.wine Here are the awesome new wines by Tranche.

2019 Tranche ‘Pink Pape’ Rose- The ‘Pink Pape’ is a gorgeous new wine by the talented winemaking team at Tranche. Fresh and beatufuly textured, the wine has delicate red fruit and rose water flavors that collide with minerals, honeydew melon and suggestions of wild mushroom on this complex palate. Delightful to enjoy right now, the 2019 ‘Pink Pape’ will cellar well over the next several years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Tranche ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- The 2017 Tranche ‘Estate’ Chardonnay has wonderful freshness and balance, with a silky smooth texture. Layers of Pink Lady apple and vanilla cream come together with minerals and shades of nutmeg infused Challah bread on the palate. The length is really good, as this bright and soft new Chardonnay will cellar well over the next seven to ten years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Tranche ‘Pape Blanc’ White Wine- Always an intriguing white wine out of Walla Walla, the 2017 ‘Pape Blanc’ combines Viognier (32%) and Grenache Blanc (19%) with 15% both Roussanne, Picpoul Blanc and Marsanne with a touch of Clairette Blanche (4%). Right out of the gate, the nutty and damp earth aromatics deftly combine with shades of kiwi and starfruit on this expressive nose. The palate is silky smooth, with layers of bright melon and starfruit flaovrs, with earthy undertones and vanilla cream flavors rounding out this expressive palate. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Tranche ‘Pape’ Red Wine- A blend of Syrah (51%) with smaller portions Mourvedre (30%) and Grenache (19%), this takes the lead with smoked brisket aromatics woven together with dried herbs, milk chocolate and loganberry preserves. The palate has great freshness with layers of red and dark fruits with creosote and chocolate covered espresso bean flavors. The length and smooth texture of the wine really shines. Outstanding to enjoy right now, the 2017 ‘Pape’ has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Tranche ‘Estate’ Syrah- Sourced from the Blue Mountain Vineyard, this has gorgeous aromatics of bacon fat, smoke, leather and ripe dark fruits that all come together in the glass. The palate is wonderfully textured, with shades of clove and cinnamon sticks that combine with tar, mocha and anise that all mingle together in unison. The long finish lingers. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Tranche ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc- The 2017 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc has layers of red bell pepper, fresh sage and ripe black fruit aromatics that all come together in the glass. The palate has good freshness and verve, with a silky texture. Layers of mocha, green bell pepper, blackberry compote and black tea all combine marvelously in the glass. Seriously good to enjoy right now, the 2017 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc shows why it is one of the better Cabernet Franc values in the state. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Tranche ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a downright awesome new wine by Tranche. Mocha, with tar and leather combine with ripe blackberries and huckleberry tones on the nose. The palate is beautifully balanced with layers of Earl Grey tea, coffee grounds and blackberry pie, with milk chocolate tones and light tannins that line the core of dark fruits. Enjoy this great new wine over the next decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 92