Instagram Live Today: Legends of WA Wine

Legends of WA Wine

Today is the day! On Instagram Live we host a trio of Washington Wine Legends, starting at 3PM Pacific, an exploration of terroir with superstar winemaker Matt Reynvaan.

4PM catch me with famed Long Shadows producer Gilles Nicault as we examine his gorgeous new lineup of everything from crisp Rose to inky Syrah.

Then at 5PM we go back in time to witness three decades of Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, vintages 1997, 2007 and 2017 with their eminent winemaker Alex Stewart. This is a lineup for the ages that you won’t want to miss 🍷

Lingua Franca

One of the premier Oregon producers of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, today we feature Lingua Franca as part of Oregon Wine Month. Lingua Franca begins with their estate vineyard, located between the Lone Star, Jerusalem Hills and Seven Springs vineyards. It is a truly sensational site. Larry Stone, MS, previously managed wine portfolios for Francis Ford Coppola as well as Augustin Huneeus before founding Lingua Franca with David Honig. After rigorous negotiations, the land for Lingua Franca was finally purchased in late 2012. We are all very glad that Larry did that.

In late 2014, Dominique Lafon of Evening Land fame indicated that he would be interested in collaborating on the project and the team began work together in February of 2015. At time that Lafon protégé, Thomas Savre, also came aboard as he had a wealth experience in some of the most illustrious wineries in Burgundy. Thomas served as assistant winemaker at Evening Land before being promoted as winemaker for Lingua Franca. Thomas is a delight to chat with and has an insanely good palate despite his youth. 

He has just a spectacular new lineup of wines from 2018 which was another warm vintage in the Willamette Valley — one that saw some serious heat spikes at times but also massive diurnal shifts in the Willamette Valley. These are beautifully textured wines that have amazing poise when you consider the heat of the vintage. I have found them to be every bit as good as the 2017 releases — if not better! Don’t miss the 2017 Lingua Franca ‘Lingua Franca Estate’ Chardonnay (WWB, 95) which is one of the best Oregon Chardonnays I have tasted over the past year. This wine tastes like a top notch Corton Charlemagne. The Pinot Noir releases were also awesome, none more so than the 2017 Lingua Franca ‘La Bellle’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which has downright awesome range and amazing tension, with a seamless texture. Learn more about Lingua Franca at https://www.linguafranca.wine Here are the beautiful new releases by Lingua Franca.

2018 Lingua Franca ‘Avni’ Chardonnay- The ‘Avni’ Chardonnay is named after the stony terroir that is found in the volcanic earth soils of the Willamette Valley. The intense aromatics catch you off guard with lovely wet stone and damp earthy accents that meld with the core of melon and green apple aromatics that all combine in the glass. Fresh, forward and downright delightful to savor, the combination of texture and mentality really entices. Showing great length, tension and salinity, this beautiful wine is only an infant and will cellar well over the next ten years. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Lingua Franca ‘Chers Amis’ Chardonnay- The ‘Chers Amis’ is sourced from two sites in the Willamette Valley that are set on volcanic soils. The smoky and Chablisesque, saline-driven aromatics really entice, bringing you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The freshness and elegance of the wine is truly awesome, as the wine moves with wet stone tones that combine with ripe pear, honeydew melon and Challah bread flavors that meld together on the palate. Finishing strong with minerals and lemon cream, the ‘Chers Amis’ is a beautiful, Burgundian bottling that has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2018 Lingua Franca ‘Lingua Franca Estate’ Chardonnay- The 2018 ‘Lingua Franca Estate’ Chardonnay is a downright stunning new Chardonnay from this storied estate and superstar winemaker Thomas Sarve. The smoky and flinty tones really arouse the senses, as lighter poached pear and vanilla cream aromatics round out this expressive bouquet. The palate has a silky mouthfeel with massive length and intensity. This would pass for a top notch Corton Charlemagne as the vibrant minerality, light salinity and earthy undertones complete this exceptional new bottling. Fully expansive and a delight to savor right now, the 2018 Lingua Franca ‘Lingua Franca Estate’ Chardonnay will have an exceedingly long life ahead of it. Try to resist this beautiful wine for another two years — if possible! Drink 2022-2040- 95

2018 Lingua Franca ‘Avni’ Pinot Noir- This Eola- Amity Hills bottling opens with a perfumed core of red and dark fruits with shades of peat moss and rose water that all take shape in the glass. The palate is plush, displaying a wonderfully bright sense of minerality that is woven together with a distinctly earthy core of black truffle crudo, peat moss and forest floor tones that combine with the wild blackberry and huckleberry flavors. Round and generous, with a silky mouthfeel, this beautiful wine will have another decade or more in the cellar. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2018 Lingua Franca ‘The Plow’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 Lingua Franca ‘The Plow’ Pinot Noir is another thrilling new bottling from this superstar team. Sourced from 1 & 2 in the Lingua Franca Vineyard, this is 100% clone 777 Pinot Noir. The earthy tones take you straight to Burgundy with shades of peat moss and forest floor that combine with wild mushroom, wild blackberry jam and citrus rind accents that all take shape in the glass. The palate shows off a silky mouthfeel and wonderful brightness, with a massive core of minerality. Sour red fruits are artfully woven together with blood orange zest, bulls blood and peat moss tones on the palate. The length and range here is seriously good. Fantastic to savor right now, the 2018 ‘The Plow’ will have a long life ahead of it. Give this another year or two before uncorking. Drink 2022-2040- 93

2018 Lingua Franca ‘La Belle’ Pinot Noir- A barrel select wine, the 2018 ‘La Belle’ is a scintillating new bottling by Lingua Franca. Needing a one hour decant to be fully aroused, the ‘La Belle’ takes the lead with wonderful earthy tones that combine with shades of black tea, kumquat, and black cherry compote that mingle in the glass. The palate has a seamless texture and is novel with its massive earthy character. Truly one of a kind, with a silky mouthfeel and plush texture, the outstanding ‘La Belle’ will cellar well for decades to come. Try to resist this beauty for another year or two. Drink 2022-2040- 94

Instagram Live Thursday and Friday

Friends,
Please join me Thursday and Friday for our exclusive Instagram Live @wa_state_wine program, featuring five of Washington’s greatest winemakers, all times Pacific. Thursday kicks off at 4:30 with @gramercycellars own Master Somm Greg Harrington, as we talk about his brilliant new lineup and top scoring Rose. Then at 6PM we mingle with one of the great young talents in Washington, @andrewjanuikwines Andrew Januik, as he introduces his new Argentinian Malbec.  

Dress to impress Friday at 3PM as I catch up with superstar winemaker @mattreynvaan Matt Reynvaan and discuss his brilliant 2017 Syrahs. Then at 4PM I meet with Giles Nicault of famed @long.shadows to chat about his glorious new Rose and Pedestal releases. Do not miss our very special vertical tasting with Alex Stewart of famed WA winery @quilcedacreek at 5PM as we revisit wines from 1997, 2007 and 2017. It will be a weekend to remember here at Washington Wine Blog 🍷☀️

2020 Pacific Northwest Rose Report

Rose was formerly often produced as a simple wine, lacking thought or complexity to help boost winery sales. ‘I never thought of making Rose that way,’ said eminent vigneron Christophe Baron. ‘We make our Rose very carefully using specific sites in our vineyard that are best for Rose,’ he added. Cote Bonneville winemaker Kerry Shiels adds ‘We found a site in our vineyard that is best for Rose using Cabernet Franc grapes,’ she said. Christophe and Kerry continue to make some of the Pacific Northwest’s top Rose bottlings.

The quality of Rose wines continues to increase. With the American wine market loving wines of Provence, more and more wines from Washington and Oregon are crafted in this delicate style — the wines show finesse and many capture the art of blending. While the market wants these wines to be released early, Brian Marcy of Big Table Farm has mentioned how important it is to release his wines later following his Rose being aged in neutral oak which improves the range and texture of his wine. 

Following up my 2019 Pacific Northwest Rose Report, my 2020 Report encompasses over 150 Rose releases. Similarly to the last two reports, it is clear that Rose wines from Oregon and Washington compete well with any of the best Rose wines in North America, including those from famed Napa, Sonoma and Central Coast estates. Rose wines from the Pacific Northwest will only continue to rise in quality. For my report I have categorized both good value Rose wines and top scoring Rose wines. This 2020 Pacific Northwest Rose Report is the most comprehensive Pacific Northwest Rose report available to the consumer.

Oregon Rose wines continue to gather great momentum in the value category, none more so than the 2018 Erath Rose (WWB, 87) and the 2019 Child’s Play Rose (WWB, 90) has stolen the show once again. I love everything about the 2019 Fairsing Vineyard Rose (WWB, 91) made by famed winemaker Robert Brittan and also I really enjoyed the 2019 Wines By Joe Rose (WWB, 87) which falls under fifteen dollars and shows delicate red fruits with a good degree of tension. Don’t miss out on the 2019 Lange Rose (WWB, 90) which is an awesome value and has wonderful bright acidity.  Once again I was blown away with Toil Oregon and their 2019 Toil Rose (WWB, 93) is a simply magical Rose wine made by superstar winemaker Chris Figgins of Leonetti Cellar fame. This wine has seriously finesse, tension and complexity as well as subtlety and a long finish. Brian Marcy’s 2019 Big Table Farm Rose (WWB, 93) is a downright stunner, showing a serious level of depth and range both aromatically and on the palate. Other beautiful Rose wines were crafted by Gran Moraine, WillaKenzie, Stoller, Domaine Serene and many others.

Washington also offers some excellent value Rose, including the new 2019 ‘Le Rose’ by Chateau St. Michelle (WWB, 89), which has really good finesse and delicate red fruits. Look to the 2019 Charles and Charles Rose (WWB, 88) which impresses at the ten dollar mark. Also look to the finesse-driven 2019 Board Track Racer ‘The Vincent’ Rose (WWB, 89) as well as the brilliant 2019 Purple Star Rose (WWB, 90) and the 2019 Pearl and Stone ‘Unemployment Beach’ Rose (WWB, 91) which are both not to be missed. One of the great values once again is the 2019 Long Shadows ‘Julia’s Dazzle’ Rose (WWB, 92) which is made from Pinot Gris grapes and is a downright steal at only eighteen dollars retail.

Amongst the top scoring Rose wines out of Washington, famed winemaker Christophe Baron of Cayuse Vineyards crafts his simply stunning ‘Edith’ Rose which was released late and comes from the warm, 2017 vintage (WWB, 93), showing amazing weight and terroir, with its light stony accents. I was blown away with Greg Harrington and Brandon Moss have created in their downright awesome 2019 Gramercy Cellars Rose (WWB, 93) which is elegant, layered and showing seriously good aromatic and flavor range. Once again I loved the 2019 DeLille Cellars Rose (WWB, 92) which has seriously good tension and richness, expertly crafted by superstar winemaker Jason Gorski. Also do not miss out on new 2019 Rose wines by, Avennia, EFESTE, W.T. Vintners,, Betz, K Vintners, Cote Bonneville, and many more. Cheers to you all from us at Washington Wine Blog as I hope you enjoy a wonderful, Rose-filled summer. 

OREGON

Top Values ($25.00 and under)

2018 2 Hawk Rose-The Grenache Rose shows very faint red fruits that dance with minerals and rose water flavors. Coming off a bit lean, this refreshing style Rose really needs a hot summer day. Drink 2020-2023- 86

2019 Child’s Play Rose- Brightly colored once in the glass, the 2019 Child’s Play Rose shows pretty red cherry candy and watermelon tones that mingle with the wet stone and earthy undertones one the wine. The palate has a kiss of sweetness and wonderful verve, with medium bodied red fruit flavors that meld with minerals and a touch of blood orange zest. I love the range here. Fantastic right now, the beautiful Pinot Noir Rose will cellar well for another seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2018 Erath ‘Oregon’ Rose- The 2018 Erath Rose shows candied red cherry and lighter rose water tones on the palate. Lithe and having just a kiss of sweetness, this is best enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2020-2023- 87

2018 Elizabeth Chambers Rose- Very pretty red fruits dance with shades of honeydew melon on this enticing nose. The palate is beautifully textured with lighter red raspberry, guava and teaberry flavors that mingle with the good sense of minerality. Enjoy this in the short-term while the brightness remains intact. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Fairsing Vineyard Rose- An excellent new wine made by superstar winemaker Robert Brittan, the 2019 Fairsing Vineyard Rose utilizes Dijon 777 and Pommard selections macerated on the skins for two hours and was allowed to settle for an additional 48 hours before barrel fermentation in neutral French oak. This wine experienced a total elevage of five months before bottling March 17, 2020. This complex Rose shows nice nutty and earthy tones that meld with guava and bright Yakima cherry aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is beautifully textured with delicate red fruits that dance with unripe honeydew melon and shades of wet stone with bright minerals that drive through to the finish. Wonderfully textured, with gobs of mouth-watering acidity, this beautiful wine will cellar well for the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2018 J. Scott Cellars Rose- Sourced from the Rogue Valley, this Grenache Rose shows delicate red fruits that dance with rose water and shades of orange rind on the palate. While obviously from a hot climate, I would love a touch more tension. Slightly sweet, enjoy this in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 87

2019 King Estate Rose- A pretty bright pink, the 2019 Rose shows bright minerals with lighter orange rind and watermelon and sour cherry tones on the palate. Lithe and refreshing, enjoy this great new rose in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 90

2019 Lange Rose- Sourced from Dundee Hills Pinot Noir, the Lange Rose shows vibrant red fruit with a lovely citrus zest edge, with copious minerals. While this comes of a bit lean and linear, the lighter texture add to the enjoyment. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Numes Family Vineyards Rose- Lighter red fruits dance with minerals and smoky undertones on the nose. Enjoy the fresh, albeit a bit lean, wine in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 87

2019 Paul O’Brien ‘Oregon Territory’ Rose- Showing good brightness, with delicate red rose water and strawberry flavors, this is best suited for early consumption due to its brightness. Citrus rind accents and copious minerals make this a great summer sipper. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2018 Portland Wine Project Rose- Made from Pinot Noir grapes, the 2018 Portland Wine Project Rose shows good freshness with a kiss of sweetness alongside melon and red raspberry tones. While a touch cloying, the wine has good acidity to back it up. Drink 2020-2023- 88 

NV Roxanne Winery Rose-The NV Roxanne Winery Rose shows good freshness and texture with bright Bing cherry and pomegranate seed flavors that mingle with the brightness. Enjoy this in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 88

2019 Sokol Blosser Rose- Soureed from estate Pinot Noir vines, the 2019 Sokol Blosser Rose offers pretty red currant and red rose petal aromas with earthy undertones that take shape in the glass. The palate is lively with very delicate red fruits that dance with suggestions of wet stone and citrus rind. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Three Otters Rose- Juicy and vibrant, the 2019 Three Otters Rose delivers bright and slightly sweet red fruits that dance with blood orange accents and minerals. This is seriously good for the price. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2018 Valley View ‘Rosado’ Rose-  This has a great texture with lighter rose water, orange zest and pomegranate seed flavors. Enjoy in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 88

2019 Yamhill Valley Vineyards Rose- Showing off its vibrant pink once in the glass, the 2019 Yamhill Valley Vineyards Rose shows lighter red fruit flavors with good acidity and shades of lemon rind on the palate. Lithe and refreshing, this really needs a hot summer day. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2018 Wines by Joe Rose- Very delicate red fruits march on with citrus rind and wet stone accents. Soft and delicate, enjoy in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 87

Top Wines: 

2019 Alexana Rose-The talented Brian Weil has chosen to ferment this Pinot Noir Rose in oak barrels for four months before bottling. Weighing in at 13.5% alcohol, the wine is wonderfully bright and shows a great sense of minerality mid-palate. Silky smooth with a soft texture, layers of sour cherry, pomegranate seed and orange rind flavors all come together marvelously on the palate. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Abacela Rose- This brightly colored Rose shows light red rose petals that meld with the bright red fruits on the nose. The palate has terrific freshness with orange rind and strawberry flavors that mingle with a soft texture and a wonderfully brightness. This has really good length and astringency. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Adelsheim Rose- This 2019  Artist Series wine is shows a beautiful landscape drawn on the label. Delicate red fruits with wild mushroom and damp earth undertones line the nose. The lip-smacking acidity that emerges on the mid-palate wonderfully dances with the bright strawberry, watermelon and wet stone flavors. Enjoy this beautiful new Rose over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2019 Argyle Rose- A pretty salmon hue once in the glass, bright strawberry, watermelon and guava tones jump right out of the glass alongside some nice earthy undertones on the nose. The palate shows very light red fruits that dance with minerals and citrus rind accents. Enjoy in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 89

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



2019 Big Table Farm ‘Laughing Pig’ Rose- The 2019 Big Table Farm ‘Laughing Pig’ Rose is another thrilling Rose bottling from this famed Oregon estate. On the nose this has seriously good range from wild mushroom tones and peat moss that are woven together with guava and pomegranate seed aromatics that all sing in unison in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, showing a pillowy texture and wonderful, gratifying length. Shades of cantaloupe and green apple combine with ripe Yakima cherry, and cran-pomegranate flavors. The earthy undertones round out this extraordinary Rose wine that will have a long life ahead of it, picking up tertiary tones as it ages. Having recently tried their 2017 Rose, I can state firsthand that their Rose ages well. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2019 Bells Up ‘Prelude’ Rose-  The ‘Prelude’ Rose was made from Pinot Noir grapes sourced from the Chehalem Mountains AVA in the Willamette Valley. Bright Bing cherry with shades of pomegranate seed and melon tones all fill the nose. The freshness and wonderful acidity of the wine really shines as delicate red fruits and citrus rind, with damp earth accents all combine marvelously on the palate. The mouthfeel and texture is really good. Drink 2020-20250- 90

2019 Boedecker Rose- This Pinot Noir Rose was aged in neutral French oak before bottling. The combination of tension and mouth-watering acidity is really good as the smooth texture entices. Bright red cherry and guava flavors combine with shades of wild mushroom and peat moss. Complex and delicious now, the Boedecker Rose will evolve well over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Chehalem Rose- The 2019 Chehalem Rose shows high-toned red raspberry and Yakima cherry tones alongside damp earthy accents that build in the glass. The palate is well-balanced with a good degree of acidity alongside lighter red fruit flavors, with damp earthy tones. Enjoy this in its youth. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Domaine Drouhin Rose- This very delicate Pinot Noir rose shows aromas of gooseberry and peat moss with bright red fruits to back up the earthy undertones. The palate is lithe and refreshing with tons of mouth-watering acidity. Delicate red fruits dance with shades of forest floor and wet stone on the palate, with white rose water accents. The freshness really drives this wine. Drink 2020-2024- 90 

2019 Gran Moraine Rose- The 2019 Gran Moraine Rose is another enticing Rose bottling from this great Oregon estate. On the nose this takes on layers of melon and ripe raspberry tones that are woven together with wet stone accents that mingle in the glass. The freshness, astringency and texture is awesome here, as mouth-watering acidity greets you mid-palate. This really needs a hot summer afternoon. Drink 2020-2025- 91

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

2019 Raptor Ridge ‘Vineyard Select’ Rose-The 2019 ‘Vineyard Select’ Rose is an awesome new wine by Shannon Gustafson. Lighter red fruits connect with shades of teaberry and orange zest on the nose. The palate is delicate but beautifully textured with shades of rose water that collide with minerals, red cherry candy and suggestions of guava puree. The mouth-watering acidity adds to the enjoyment as this is a delicate, nuanced and fresher style of Oregon Pinot Noir Rose. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Stoller Rose- The 2019 Stoller Rose was sourced from a host of sites throughout the Willamette Valley. This Pinot Noir Rose opens with bright red fruits with pink  bubblegum and orange rind accents that all mingle in the glass. The palate has downright awesome acidity that runs through the core of cran-cherry, pomegranate seed and kumquat flavors. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Toil Oregon Rose- Sourced from Pinot Noir grapes and showing off its vibrant hue once in the glass, the 2019 Toil Rose opens with lovely wild mushroom and damp earth tones that are woven together with shades of nutmeg, cran-cherry and teaberry that all take shape in the glass. Once on the attack the wine takes on a silky mouthfeel producing a seamless effect mid-palate. The generous length really entices, as this slowly unveils pretty red fruits that dance with rose water and shades of peat moss flavors. Subtle, elegant and truly outstanding, showing good texture and brightness, the 2019 Toil Rose will only get better with time, becoming even more round and picking up earthy tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2019 Trisaetum Rose- Crafted from Pinot Noir grapes, the 2019 Trisaetum Rose is a brilliant new release by the talented and fellow Arsenal supporter James Frey. The delicate red cherry, red raspberry and wet stone aromatics combine with shades of wet stone and peat moss that all take shape in the glass. The palate has great freshness and structure, with delicate red fruits that dance with minerals and the earthy undertones of the wine. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next several years while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2023- 90

2019 WillaKenzie Estate Rose- Made from Pinot Noir grapes, the Rose shows pretty white rose and damp earth tones that collide with undertones of blood orange rind and honeydew melon that meld in the glass. The palate has dazzling minerality and a silky texture that entices, delivering bright red fruits and citrus rind accents. This is just awesome stuff that will cellar well for another five years. Kudos to superstar winemaker Erik Kramer. Drink 2020-2025- 91

WASHINGTON

Top Values  ($25.00 and under): 

2019 Balboa Rose- A blend of 69% Mourvedre and the remainder Grenache, the Balboa Rose shows juicy red fruits with Mandarin orange rind and wet stone accents. Showing a soft texture, this needs a warm summer day. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2019 Barnard Griffin Rose- The 2019 Barnard Griffin Rose shows light red fruit aromatics that mingle with some faint citrus rind tones on the nose. The palate has some good freshness but is lacking depth with its faint red fruits and minerals. Drink 2020-2023- 86

2019 Board Track Racer ‘The Vincent’ Rose- At fifteen dollars this hits the mark with layers of delicate red fruits that march on with shades of kumquat zest and a bright level of acidity. This needs a warm summer day. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Brook & Bull Rose- An intriguing blend of 47% Mourvedre, 31% Cinsault, 22% Counoise, that were all sourced from the Columbia Valley AVA, the 2019 Brook & Bull Rose opens with layers of melon and wet stone, with bright minerals and delicate red fruits on the palate. Lithe and refreshing, enjoy this in the short-term while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2023- 90

2019 Cave B Rose- The 2019 Cave B Rose shows good freshness with a soft texture. Layers of watermelon and guava mark the palate. Enjoy this well-balanced Rose over the next several years. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Cairdeas Rose- Sourced from the ‘Meek Vineyard’ in the Yakima Valley, this delivers a very smooth texture with lively minerals that mingle with bright watermelon, tart cantaloupe, and cran-pomegranate flavors, with earthy undertones. This is very well-done. Drink 2020-2023- 90

2019 Charles and Charles Rose- A blend of Syrah and Grenache, the wine offers faint red fruits that dance with minerals on the palate. While not complex, this offers seriously good value at only ten dollars. Drink 2020-2023- 88

2019 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Le Rose’ Rose- Remarkably made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, you wouldn’t expect that from the tension and flavor profiles.Very delicate red fruits dance with shades of kumquat and minerals on the palate. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Columbia Winery Rose- This Grenache Rose was sourced from the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. The wine shows on the lighter side with delicate rose water and ripe red raspberry flavors. Enjoy this lithe wine over the next two or three years. Drink 2020-2023- 87

2019 Coyote Canyon Rose- Brightly colored, this shows off watermelon and red cherry candy aromatics that take shape in the glass. The palate has bright acidity with seriously good tension that runs through the green apple and pretty red fruit flavors. Enjoy in its youth while the great intensity remains. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 DAMA Wines Rose- Crafted from Cabernet Franc grapes, this has wonderful brightness with a silky texture. Layers of nectarine and kiwi collide with subtle bright red fruits on the palate. The combination of minerality and texture really makes this sing as this refreshing style of Rose is deserving a hot summer night. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Drum Roll Rose- Earthy undertones collide with delicate red fruits on the nose. The palate has a soft texture with lighter melon and rose water flavors with a kiss of sweetness. Forward but well-balanced, enjoy this in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 88

2019 Eternal Wines ‘Eternal Beauty’ Rose- The ‘Eternal Beauty’ is a Grenache wine sourced from the Lawrence Vineyard. Layers of cantaloupe and rose water greet you on the palate, showing off a nice tension and soft mouthfeel. This is a solid, astringent effort that is best enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2019 Fortuity Cellars Rose- Made from Cinsault grapes, sourced from the Yakima Valley AVA, the 2019 Fortuity Cellars Rose shows off pretty red rose petals that mingle with wild mushroom and wet stone tones on the nose. Bone dry, with good acidity, light red fruits dance with minerals on the palate. The long finish catches you by surprise. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2019 Frog Kisser Rose- The 2019 Frog Kisser Rose shows lighter melon and starfruit flavors with the faintest kiss of strawberry. The minerals guide this wine that is best enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2020-2022- 88

2019 Gifford Hirlinger Rose- Made from Pinot Gris grapes, you wouldn’t expect that from the vibrant hue shining from the glass. The palate is soft and mineral-driven with lighter red fruit and melon tones with orange rind accents. Enjoy this in the short-term. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Goose Ridge Rose- Pretty and floral, the 2019 Goose Ridge Rose leads with cran-cherry, guava and sweetened melon flavors. With a good mineral backing this softy textured Rose is best enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Grosgrain ‘Blush’ Rose- The 2019 ‘Blush’ is very delicate Rose. The earthy tones on the nose really excite with melon and wild strawberry rounding out the bouquet. The freshness is lovely on the palate with minerals and delicate red fruits with rose water tones. Drink 2020-2023- 89

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

2019 Locus Rose- A blend from the ‘7 Mile Vineyard’ utilizing Grenache and Cinsault, with smaller portions Mourvedre, the 2019 Locus Rose has great acidity with very light bubblegum, red cherry and watermelon flavors, with cantaloupe accents. While not showing much weight, enjoy this lighter style Rose in the short-term while the brightness remains at its core. Drink 2020-2023- 88

2019 Mastrogiannis Rose- Fresh, and brimming with bright acidity, the 2019 Mastrogiannis Rose has delicate red fruits with a strong astringency. While coming off a bit lean, the sour red fruit and green apple flavors add to the appeal. Drink 2020-2023- 87 

2019 Pahto Rose-  The 2019 Pahto Rose is made from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Columbia Gorge AVA. The palate shows great minerality with earthy undertones that mingle with bright red fruits and shades of lemon zest that all take shape in the glass. Fantastic right now, showing a soft texture and good astringency, this really needs a hot summer day. Drink 2020-2025- 90

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 Purple Star Rose- Purple Star is gaining quite a reputation for their value-driven, lip-smacking Rose. This edition has very pretty rose petals that march together with red cherry preserves and shades of cantaloupe on this expressive nose. The freshness and soft texture both entice as this beautiful, hard to resist Rose wine is best consumed on a hot summer night. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Renegade Wine Company Rose- This Columbia Valley bottling shows juicy acidity with pink bubblegum and melon tones on the palate. Enjoy it while the freshness remains. Drink 2020-2023- 87

2019 Revelry Rose- Pale colored once in the glass, the 2019 Revelry Rose shows delicate red fruits that are woven together with shades of nectarine and honeydew melon on the nose. The palate has a great degree of freshness with lighter red cherry and watermelon tones that mingle with the minerals. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2019 Seven Hills Rose- One of the consistently great Washington Rose wines for the price, this edition has very delicate red fruit aromatics that play with melon and wet stone tones on the nose. The palate has good freshness with a sulky mouthfeel. Layers of delicate red fruits dance with melon, orange rind and wet stone tones  on the palate. This is seriously good stuff for the price. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Sin Banderas Rose- The 2019 Sin Banderas Rose is an awesome value comprised of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, and Cinsault. With a kiss of sweetness, this reveals a soft texture alongside minerals and bright red fruits. This is awesome wine for a hot summer day. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Sleight of Hand ‘The Magician’s Assistant’ Rose- Sourced from Cabernet Franc vines from the Blackrock Vineyard, the 2019 ‘The Magician’s Assistant’ Rose is an awesome new bottling from the talented winemaking team at Sleight of Hand. Aromatics of pink grapefruit blossom and watermelon entice, as the wine takes on a brilliant texture once on the attack. Layers of pretty sweetened red fruits and melon mingle with the bright sense of acidity on the palate. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 SMAK Wines ‘Fall/Winter’ Rose- Made from Syrah grapes, this has a kiss of sweetness with melon and minerals, as well as delicate red cherry and rose water flavors. Fresh, vibrant and elegant, the long finish lingers. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2019 SMAK Wines ‘Spring’ Rose- Made from Sangiovese, the wine has damp earth tones that linger with red rose petals on the nose. The palate is bright and mineral driven with delicate red fruits and wet stone tones that mingle with shades of unripe cantaloupe. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 SMAK Wines ‘Summer’ Rose- The ‘Summer’ Rose is made from Pinot Gris and shows layers of white rose and pear tones that mingle with the earthy undertones of the wine. The palate has really good verve, with delicate melon and orange zest flavors with minerals and lighter damp earth tones. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Spring Run Rose- The 2019 Spring Run shows sweet strawberry and shades of guava that take shape on the nose. The freshness of thew wine shows marvelously with lighter red fruits that dance with shades of citrus rind.The light kiss of sweetness and light salinity and savory edge is lovely. This is a super refreshing Rose wine that needs a warm summer day. Drink 2020-2023- 90

2019 Tamarack Rose- Intriguingly utilizing Cinsault in the blending, the 2019 Tamarack Rose shows nice earthy and nutty tones on the nose with bright strawberry and nectarine that all take shape in the glass. The palate has a kiss of sweetness with lighter citrus rind and red fruit tones, with rose water accents that all mingle together nicely. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 TruthTeller ‘Quip’ Rose- Sourced from the Yakima Valley, the ‘Quip’ Rose delivers delicate rose water and melon tones with shades of red raspberry and red cherry. This is lithe and well-structured, as this delicate style Rose will be best enjoyed over the next several years while the brightness remains. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 Underground Wine Project ‘And Why am I Mr. Pink?’ Rose- This value bottling has received a strong following over the years, a project between Trey Busch and Mark Ryan McNeily. Lithe and light on its feet, this offers delicate red fruit and melon tones with wet rock accents. Enjoy this lighter style Rose over the next several years. Drink 2020-2023- 89

2019 Upsidedown Wine Rose- One of the only Washington Rose wines made from Nebbiolo grapes, the 2019 Upsidedown Wine Rose shows red rose petal and guava tones on the nose with a touch of scorched earth that all take shape in the glass. The palate is beautifully textured with plenty of stuffing. Bright red fruits dance with shades of Gravenstein apple, wet stone and smoky accents collide with the mouth-watering acidity. This is seriously good stuff for the price. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Warr-King ‘Lily Frances’ Rose- Unusually made from Petit Verdot grapes, this shows good brightness, with sweetened red cherry and melon tones. Coming off a touch sweet, this will appeal to those who love wines on the sweeter side. Drink 2020-2023- 88

2019 Warr-King ‘Marie Noelle’ Rose- Crafted from Columbia Valley Syrah, the ‘Marie Noelle’ has considerably less sweetness than the ‘Lily Frances’ bottling but the same degree of freshness. Red cherry candy and shades of guava come together with a kiss of sweetness and minerals on the palate. Drink 2020-2023- 88

Top Wines:

2019 Amavi Rose- The 2019 Amavi Rose is comprised of 100% Cabernet Franc which was sourced from the Summit View and Waliser Vineyards in the Walla Walla Valley. Entirely aged in stainless steel before bottling, this opens with lovely wild mushroom tones that combine with rose water and suggestions of cantaloupe that all come together in the glass. The palate is vibrant, with a lovely tension that runs through the delicate red fruits with citrus rind and damp earthy undertones. Despite being a Bordeaux varietal Rose, this comes off as very Bandol. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Ambassador Wines of Washington Rose- Ambassador has been producing a really good Rose for several years now, and this new 2019 bottling is as good as any they’ve made. Silky smooth through the attack, this shows a touch of sweetness alongside bright melon and citrus rind tones that meld with the core of strawberry and watermelon flavors. Seriously good right now, this has the potential to age for several years, picking up earthy tones as it evolves. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Avennia ‘L’Egerie’ Rose- Sourced from the Columbia Valley, this beautiful, salmon hued Rose opens with shades of wild mushroom and damp earth that mingle with delicate red cherry and cranberry aromas that meld in the glass. The palate is refined and marvelously texture, yielding a soft mouthfeel and a seamless quality. Copious minerals dance with delicate red fruits and rose water flavors on the palate. The length of the wine make this truly sing. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2019 Baer Rose- Intriguingly made from Cabernet Franc grapes, the 2019 Baer Rose has the most delicate pink hue, with layers of melons and green apple tones with hints of red rose petals that combine in the glass. The bright acidity of the wine is simply marvelous as copious minerals dance with lighter red fruits, orange zest and wet stone flavors. This is a seriously good Rose made by superstar winemaker Erica Orr. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2019 Betz ‘Rose Cache’ Rose- The ‘Rose Cache’ is lightly colored, opening with intriguing nutty and damp earth tones that mingle with rose water and bright red raspberry on this expressive nose. The palate has great verve and freshness with a silky texture. The length and mouth-watering acidity of the wine its truly outstanding as delicate red fruits dance with wet stone and earthy undertones. Enjoy this beautiful new bottling over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 92

2019 Bledsoe Family Wines ‘Healy’ Rose- The 2019 Bledsoe Family Wines ‘Healy’ Rose is a bright and intense effort that is jam-packed with both minerality and ripe red fruit flavors. Literally full-bodied, the layers of ripe raspberry, strawberry and guava all come together with sweetened melon and wet stone undertones. Fantastic to savor right now, this has the stuffing to cellar over the next seven years, picking up earthy tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Edith’ Rose-  The ‘Edith’ Rose was sourced from four rows of Grenache which is only grown for Rose. The wine was whole cluster pressed prior to bottling and the wine is kept for another year due to the wine being unfiltered. The wine was aged in both concrete eggs and stainless steel prior to bottling. The nose is very perfumed and pretty red rose, wild strawberry with shades of wild mushroom and orange rind that all mingle nicely in the glass. The texture here is silky smooth as the wine seamlessly glides across the mid-palate. Bright guava and strawberry flavors mingle with wonderful peat moss, wet stone and melon tones all fill the palate. This is Grenache Rose at its finest. Drink 2019-2025- 93

2019 Cote Bonneville Rose- Each year Kerry Shiels crafts a seriously good Rose made from Cabernet Franc vines in the famed DuBrul Vineyard. This 2019 edition has a soft and generous mouthfeel with delightful layers of peat moss, bright citrus zest, red raspberry and a wonderfully silky texture. The length and weight of the wine is seriously gratifying. A delight to savor in its youth, this is a Rose that will age for five to seven years, picking up lovely earthy tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2019 Dunham Cellars Rose- Made from Cabernet Franc grapes, the 2019 Dunham Rose opens with pretty red rose water aromatics that are woven together with pink grapefruit blossom and shades of unripe honeydew melon that all take their shape in the glass. The texture is silky and inviting as lighter red fruits dance with minerals, citrus rind and wet stone accents on the palate. This really needs a ht summer night. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2019 DeLille Cellars Rose- The 2019 DeLille Rose is a beautiful blend of Grenache (47%) and Mourvedre (45%) with the remainder Cinsault. The delicate, seamless texture really entices once on the mouth as this effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Bright guava and Mandarin orange zest flavors collide with minerals, watermelon and suggestions of damp earth that all sing in the glass. This is a truly outstanding, silky Rose that is a delight to savor right now but has a long life to go, picking up earthy tones as it sits in the cellar. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2019 EFESTE ‘Oldfield Estate’ Rose- The 2019 ‘Oldfield Estate’ Rose is another gorgeous effort from this famed Woodinville house. The palate is very delicately textured with a very Provence feel as lighter red fruits dance with minerals and shades of kumquat. While a bit lean, this is classy stuff that shows better at a cooler temperature where the racy acidity and sour notes really shine together. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Gramercy Cellars ‘Olsen Vineyard’ Rose- A blend of Cinsault (44%), Grenache (28%) and Syrah (28%), the 2019 Gramercy Cellars ‘Olsen Vineyard’ Rose is an absolutely awesome new wine by the superstar winemaking team of Greg Harrington, MS, and Brandon Moss. The aromatic range is seriously good from pink grapefruit blossom to cantaloupe and shades of guava and ripe strawberry all come together in the glass. The palate is both lithe and refreshing, showing great acidity and a silky texture, with marvelous earthy undertones that connect with the core of bright red fruits. Truly outstanding to savor in its youth, the 2019 Gramercy Cellars ‘Olsen Vineyard’ Rose will cellar marvelously for the next seven plus years, picking up earthy tones as it ages. This is truly one of the best Rose wines made in the Pacific Northwest. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2019 J. Bookwalter ‘Scarlet Hexflame’ Rose- An intriguing blend of Bordeaux varietals, the 2019 ‘Scarlet Hexflame’ shows pretty honeydew melon with red rose petals and watermelon tones on the nose. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a soft texture that delightfully coats the mid-palate. The brightness and sense of minerality here is seriously good. Wait for the long, red fruit and mineral-driven finish that is truly gratifying. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 K Vintners ‘Phil Lane Vineyard’ Rose- Sourced from the Phil Lane Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley, this Syrah Rose has damp earth tones that combine with smoky minerals and shades of red currants that all build in the glass. The soft texture really entices as layers of guava and red cherry candy mingle with citrus rind and melon tones on the palate. Complex and downright delicious, with a long finish, this gorgeous new release will cellar well for the next seven years, picking up nutty and earthy tones as it cellars. Drink 2020-2025- 92

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

2019 Lauren Ashton Rose- Dr. Kit Sing has developed a sterling reputation for crafting great Rose and this is amongst his finest effort. Brightly hued, the Rose has watermelon tones that are woven together with rose water and suggestions of Gravenstein apple that all come together in the glass. The palate has vibrant minerality with light to medium bodied melon, green apple and strawberry flavors. Bright and youthful, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next several years. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2019 Long Shadows ‘Julia’s Dazzle’ Rose- Made from Pinot Gris grapes, the 2019 ‘Julia’s Dazzle’ Rose follows a very strong line of releases from this famed Washington winery. The bouquet is extraordinary, showing kumquat zest and red cherry candy tones that collide with shades of wild mushroom, cran-pomegranate and pink grapefruit blossom that all take shape in the glass. The combination of freshness, texture and tension is absolutely outstanding, as the silky mouthfeel adds to the enjoyment. Bright pear and cran-orange flavors mingle with guava and copious minerals on the palate. The long finish lingers. This is best enjoyed in its youth, while the wonderful core of brightness remains intact. Drink 2020-2024- 92

2018 Maryhill ‘Proprietor’s Reserve’ Rose- A blend of Grenache (58%), Mourvedre (21%) and Cinsault (21%), the ‘Proprietor’s Reserve’ begins with cherry candy and guava aromas that meld with light damp earth tones on the nose. The soft texture really entices here as the wine shows just a touch of sweetness with its light red fruit profile. The finish is generous and keeps going. Showing textural elegance and gobs of minerality, this is a special effort by winemaker Richard Bachelor that is exceedingly hard to put down one opened. Drink 2019-2025- 90

2019 Pursued By Bear ‘Blushing Bear’ Rose- The ‘Blushing Bear’ is an awesome wine made by the talented Dan Wampfler of Abeja fame. On the nose this shows off pretty damp earth tones that meld with shades of wild strawberry and Bing cherry that all take shape in the glass. The palate shows a soft texture and beautiful sense of astringency. Light red fruits dance with minerals and shades of Mandarin orange rind with peat moss tones on the palate. Showing a silky texture, this beautiful Rose will provide drinking enjoyment for another five to seven years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Saviah Rose- Made from Barbera and Sangiovese grapes from the Dugger Creek Vineyard, the 2019 Saviah Rose is another gorgeous new bottling by Richard Funk. While the nose shows faint red fruits, the palate is juicy and ripe with mouth-watering acidity and gobs of minerals that greet you with the melon and red fruit tones. Delightful to savor in its youth, this awesome new Rose will cellar well for another five years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 The Walls ‘Cruel Summer’ Rose- The Walls have gained a really strong reputation for their 'Cruel Summer’ Rose and this 2019 edition is amongst the best yet. The nose shows considerably better range out of a Riedel Burgundy glass, with pretty rose water tones mingling with minerals and melon accents on this delicate nose. The palate picks up a silky texture, with watermelon, white peach, Gravenstein apple and honeydew melon tones that all come together nicely in the glass. While not particularly rich, the elegance of the wine really shines through to the long finish with lighter red fruit, white rose water and mineral tones. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Time & Direction Rose- Fittingly placing a Nintendo controller on his label, the talented Steve Wells has crafted another beautiful, pale, Rose wine with his 2019 release. The nose is wonderfully fragrant with layers of ripe peach and white rose water, combining with layers of wet stone and earthy undertones that all march in place in the glass. The palate is bone dry with a silky texture that entices. Delicate red raspberry and Yakima cherry flavors mingle with the melon and wet stone tones. Really good right now, I can see this cellaring well for the next five plus years, picking up more earthy tones and rounding out even more as it ages. Drink 2020-2025- 91

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

2019 Walla Walla Vintners Rose- The 2019 Walla Walla Vintners Rose has a very soft texture with very delicate red cherry, red raspberry and rose water flavors. The smoothness of the wine really impresses, as the weight and structure of the wine really sing. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 W.T. Vintners ‘Rainmaker’ Rose- Adeptly named, hailing from the ‘Rainmaker Vineyard’ in the Columbia Gorge AVA, the 2019 W.T. Vintners Rose opens with pretty pink grapefruit blossoms that are woven together with rose water and shades of red raspberry that all come together in the glass. The palate has remarkable freshness and elegance with copious minerals that mingle together with a soft texture and bright guava and red cherry candy flavors. The combination of freshness and mouthfeel is seriously good. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2018 XOBC ‘Evangeline’ Rose- Sourced from the Rocks District, the Rose is a blend of equal parts Grenache and Syrah. Bright melon tones collide with lighter wet stone and Yakima cherry tones on the nose. The silky texture and brightness of the wine really creates an inviting approach on the palate. The length and rich melon flavors show marvelously in this highly gratifying new Rose. Drink 2020-2024- 91

Larkmead Vineyards

One of the great historic Napa estates, founded in 1895, Larkmead Vineyards have gained an international reputation for their world class Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Their estate vineyard is located between Selby Creek and the Napa River at the conjunction point of two colluvial fans that extend from the Mayacamas and the Vaca mountain ranges. Vines are set on an ancient gravel riverbed gravel which lies directly beneath the topsoil. Winemaker Dan Petroski is one of they talented minds of Napa and has excelled with his new set of releases from the exciting 2016 vintage. Born in Brooklyn, Dan attended Columbia University and then completed NYU business school before moving into marketing, finance and advertising at Time Inc. and Sports Illustrated. HIs interest in wine moved him to Sicily, as caught the wine bug and later migrated to the Napa Valley, devoting himself into learning the art and science of winemaking.

His entry level Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Larkmead Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 96) is amongst the best of Napa not only because of its depth but deft sense of balance and place. This is a remarkable wine. Even better was the 2016 Larkmead ‘Solari’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 98) which is close to perfection in a bottle, showing even more massive structure and dark fruit and non-fruit flavors. Learn more about this storied Napa estate at https://larkmead.com Here are the beautiful new Cabernet Sauvignon wines by Larkmead Vineyards.

2017 Larkmead ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon The 2017 Larkmead ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon utilizes clone 337 and has 10% Merlot blended in. Aged 75% new oak prior to bottling, the 2017 Larkmead Cabernet Sauvignon opens with cassis, anise and shades of tar with loamy terroir on this downright awesome nose. The palate shows great viscosity and tension with layers of rich dark fruits that collide with minerals, violets and suggestions of creosote and underbrush that all meld in the glass. The long finish provides plenty of satisfaction. Outstanding to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 Larkmead ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2022-2040- 95

Abacela

One of the outstanding wineries of Southern Oregon, as we march on another great Oregon Wine Month we bring you the wines of Abacela. Founded by Earl and Hilda Jones, Abacela is located in the Umpqua Valley AVA and was the first winery to commercially grow and produce Tempranillo wines in the Pacific Northwest. It is no surprise that these wines performed particularly well on my 2020 Tempranillo Report.

In 1995 the Jonses planted at their Cox's Rock Parcel, Abacela’s first vineyard, which was named for James and Elizabeth Cox who settled the property in 1849. It has southerly slopes that average 12% grade, and elevation ranging from 526 to 640 ft, with an average of 590 ft. Earl Jones has served as Abacela’s founding winemaker from 1996 until 2008 and since then Andrew Wenzl was promoted to winemaker. 

Andrew’s new wines are absolutely terrific across the board. White and Rose wines have great freshness while the red wines possess awesome depth and concentration. Look to the 2019 Abacela Rose (WWB, 91) which is bright and has amazing freshness and good length. I loved the 2019 Abacela Albarino (WWB, 91) which has lovely green apple and melon flavors.  Look to the 2015 Abacela ‘Reserve’ Tempranillo (WWB, 91) which is a deep and layered wine that will cellar well for the next decade. This is one of the top Tempranillo bottling out of Southern Oregon. Learn more about this great historic Oregon winery at https://www.abacela.com Here is the great new lineup by Abacela. 

2019 Abacela Rose- This brightly colored Rose shows light red rose petals that meld with the bright red fruits on the nose. The palate has terrific freshness with orange rind and strawberry flavors that mingle with a soft texture and a wonderfully brightness. This has really good length and astringency. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Abacela Albarino- Crafted from estate fruit, the 2019 Abacela Albarino opens with kiwi and green apple tones that come together with shades of nutmeg on the nose. The palate is plush showing good freshness and verve alongside the green apple and melon tones. Drink 2020-2025- 91

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

2016 Abacela ‘Barrel Select’ Tempranillo- The ‘Barrel Select’ is a great new Tempranillo that was largely aged in neutral French oak prior to bottling. Ripe red and dark fruits with chocolate and tar greet you on the palate, with lively acidity. This has the stuffing and acidity to cellar over the next decade. Drink 2020-2028- 90

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 mingle 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

2016 Abacela Tinta Amarela- The 2016 Tinta Amarela has great freshness with a core of dark fruits with suggestions of dark chocolate shavings and underbrush tones. Lightly tannic, enjoy this great wine over the next several years. Drink 2020-2025- 89

2015 Abacela ‘Reserve’ Syrah- Deeply colored in the glass, the 2015 Abacela ‘Reserve’ Syrah shows creosote and bacon fat tones on the nose with layers of dark fruits that all combine in the glass. The palate has good freshness with medium bodied dark fruit and chocolate tones alongside a good vein of tension. Drink 2020-2025- 90

K Vintners

One of the iconic brands in Washington wine, K Vintners was founded by Washington wine pioneer Charles Smith. This larger than life man has received incredible acclaim for his wines over the years created an amazing place to taste his wines in south Seattle in the Georgetown district, his iconic Jet City tasting room, literally next door to Boeing Field. Brennan Leighton and Charles craft some incredible wines for K Vintners. Brennan also produces some amazing wine of his own under his own label, ‘B. Leighton.’ 

Known for world class Syrah, the superb 2016 K Vintners ‘Royal City’ Syrah landed on my Top 100 last year. The new releases by K Vintners were impressive bottlings. Look for the awesome 2017 K Vintners ‘Rock Garden’ Syrah (WWB, 94) which shows an amazing vein of stony character and seriously good range, with Umami that you love from the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA. Just as good was the scintillating new 2017 K Vintners ‘The Boy’ Grenache (WWB, 94) which has marvelous tension and a pillowy texture. L Learn more about these outstanding new wines https://winesofsubstance.com Here are the great new wines by K Vintners.

2019 K Vintners ‘Phil Lane Vineyard’ Rose- Sourced from the Phil Lane Vineyard in the Walla Walla Valley, this Syrah Rose has damp earth tones that combine with smoky minerals and shades of red currants that all build in the glass. The soft texture really entices as layers of guava and red cherry candy mingle with citrus rind and melon tones on the palate. Complex and downright delicious, with a long finish, this gorgeous new release will cellar well for the next seven years, picking up nutty and earthy tones as it cellars. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2017 K Vintners ‘The Boy’ Grenache- The 2017 ‘The Boy’ Grenache is a gorgeous new wine from the talented winemaking team at K Vintners. Intense aromatics greet you, as the range is seriously good from red cherry candy to green olive tapenade with wet stone and guava and orange rind tones on this expressive bouquet. The palate has a silky texture with layers of bright red fruits with shades of wet stone, damp earth, green olive, Umami and white truffle tones. Fresh and beautifully textured, enjoy this great wine over the next seven plus years. Drink 2020-2027- 94

2017 K Vintners ‘Rockgarden Vineyard’ Syrah- Pure terroir, the 2017 ‘Rockgarden Estate’ has shades of Hoisin sauce and Umami tones with green peppercorns and wild blackberry puree on this expressive nose. The palate is plush and shows a voluptuous texture. Layers of black fruits mingle with white pepper, Umami, black truffle shavings and a great sense of salinity. This has a soft, inviting texture and finishes long with shades of blackberry, creosote and minerals. Drink 2020-2027- 94

2017 K Vintners ‘Guido’ Sangiovese- The 2017 ‘Guido’ Sangiovese has nice fresh herbs that mingle with red cherry and cran-orange tones on this expressive nose. The palate has layers of toasty oak that wrap around a core of red fruits with cirrus rind and damp earth undertones. Richly textured, this is delicious wine to be enjoyed over the next seven plus years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 K Vintners ‘The Creator’ Red Wine- A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (75%) with the remainder Syrah, ‘The Creator’ was sourced from the ‘Powerline Vineyard’ which is located south of downtown Walla Walla. The herbal undertones meld nicely with the rich dark fruits and milk chocolate tones on the nose. The palate has good verve and freshness with medium to full bodied red and dark fruits. Beautifully textured, with a light dusting of slainity, this beautiful wine will cellar well for the next ten plus years. Drink 2020-2030- 93

SMAK Wines

One of the thing about Washington State is they have such a unique set of wineries. Whether it is Riesling or stony Syrah, Washington has a near unrivaled range of wines that it can produce — and also do well. One of the more unique business models in the industry that focuses on crafting limited production Rose, SMAK Wines is the new project by Fiona Mak out of Walla Walla. Mak is a graduate of Syracuse University’s hospitality management program. Originally from Hong Kong, Fiona had a formidable career in the restaurant industry, making a host of great spots like Morimoto in Philadelphia, Haru Sushi in New York, and Quality Meats, in Manhattan. Fiona is also a certified sommelier through the Court of Master Sommelier. 

In 2013 she traveled across country to begin her wine education at the Walla Walla Community College Enology and Viticulture program. She then was employed as a lab manager at Artifex Wine Company. Her wines are inspired by her travels to Provence and I can see that feeling of delicacy and nuance in each bottle. Rose is quite difficult to make well and I was very impressed with her latest set of releases. Her 2019 SMAK Wines ‘Summer’ Rose (WWB, 90) is fresh, vibrant and has delicate melon tones and really good range. With its brightness, this will be hard to resist on a hot day. Even better is her 2019SMAK Wines ‘Fall/Winter’ Rose (WWB, 91) which has more substantial weight and a great, lasting finish. Learn more about this great new winery at https://www.smakwines.com Here are the great new releases by SMAK 

2019 SMAK Wines ‘Fall/Winter’ Rose- Made from Syrah grapes, this has a kiss of sweetness with melon and minerals, as well as delicate red cherry and rose water flavors. Fresh, vibrant and elegant, the long finish lingers. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2019 SMAK Wines ‘Spring’ Rose- Made from Sangiovese, the wine has damp earth tones that linger with red rose petals on the nose. The palate is bright and mineral driven with delicate red fruits and wet stone tones that mingle with shades of unripe cantalope. Drink 2020-2024- 90

2019 SMAK Wines ‘Summer’ Rose- The ‘Summer’ Rose is made from Pinot Gris and shows layers of white rose and pear tones that mingle with the earthy undertones of the wine. The palate has really good verve, with delicate melon and orange zest flavors with minerals and lighter damp earth tones. Drink 2020-2024- 90

Lemelson Vineyards

It has been several years since I have written a feature on Lemelson Vineyards — and I am definitely overdue. As part of Oregon Wine Month we bring you the wines of Lemelson Vineyards, founded by eminent environmental lawyer, Eric Lemelson who first began planting Pinot Noir in 1995. He created a high tech gravity flow winery which processed it’s first vintage in 1999. All farming practices are organic at Lemelson. Matt Wengel serves as Lemelson winemaker. Matt is a graduate of the prestigious UC Davis Enology and Viticulture program. Following his time workin harvests in Sonoma County, he worked in South Africa at Warwick Estate and had stops in Chile as well as upstate New York. He eventually accepted a position at Stags Leap Winery in Napa Valley and well as serving as assistant winemaker at Clos Pegase for several years prior to. Coming to Lemelson Vineyards.

I was really impressed with the overall quality of the lineup. He has crafted a beautiful new 2016 Lemelson ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay (WWB, 91) which is vibrant and has a great sense of balance, with a seamless texture. I absolutely adored the new 2015 Lemelson ‘Jerome Reserve’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which is rich, decadent and downright impossible to resist in its youth. This beautiful wine has at least another decade in front of it. Learn more about these excellent new wines at http://www.lemelsonvineyards.com Here are the fantastic new wine releases by Lemelson Vineyards.

2016 Lemelson Vineyards ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay- Brightly colored once in the glass, the ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay is a downright awesome new wine by Lemelson. With fantastic verve and elegance, this seamless new wine reveals lemon cream and toasty hazelnut tones that combine with the lovely sense of minerality. The finish is long as the great feeling of length adds to the drinking enjoyment. Enjoy this fantastic warm vintage new Chardonnay over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2016 Lemelson Vineyards ‘Chestnut Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 ‘Chestnut Hill VIneyard’ Pinot Noir opens with pretty cran-orange and damp earth tones that take shape in the glass. The palate has a silky texture with straightforward red fruit flavors with shades of orange zest. Drink 2020-2026- 90

2016 Lemelson Vineyards ‘Meyer Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 ‘Meyer Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows good richness with wild blkacberry and citrus rind accents alongside damp earth tones on the palate. I really enjoy the complexity here, as this bright Pinot Noir will mature well for a decade. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2016 Lemelson Vineyard ‘Stermer Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Stermer Vineyard’ Pinot Noir opens with peat moss and blood orange zest which meld with shades of red cherry candy and pomegranate seed on this expressive nose. The palate is plush, delivering a good range of red fruits with bright acidify and lighter damp earth tones. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2016 Lemelson Vineyard ‘Thea’s Selection’ Pinot Noir- A barrel selection wine, the 2016 ‘Thea’s Selection’ shows nice white truffle shavings and cinnamon stick aromatics that mingle with the core of dark fruits on the nose. The palate is round and generous with a delightful mouthfeel. Rich kirsch and peat moss tones combine with the bright sense of minerality and soft texture on the palate. Layered and downright sexy in its youth, the 2016 ‘Thea’s Selection’ will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2015 Lemelson Vineyard ‘Jerome Reserve’ Pinot Noir- The 2015 ‘Jerome Reserve’ Pinot Noir is an amalgamation of the top 20 barrels selected for the vintage. Mostly blends of barrels from the Meyer and Stermer Vineyards, the wine has smaller portions coming from the Chestnut Hill and Johnson Vineyards. Rich toasty oak tones combine with shades of huckleberry and orange zest that all take shape in the glass. The palate is round and rich, showing a seamless effect. Rich red and dark fruits combine with minerals and lovely forest floor and black truffle shavings on the palate. The combination of length and density really impresses. Fantastic in its youth, the 2015 ‘Jerome Reserve’ will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 93

Saviah

As I sat in the passenger seat of his rugged Jeep, we made our way into the heart of the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. One of the few people who have two separate vineyards in this hallowed sub-AVA, Richard Funk took us on a journey to see the varying terroir at his ‘The Funk Estate’ and ‘The Stones Speak’ vineyards. Richard is crazy about great terroir and you can see that in his wines across the board. A humble, down to earth guy, Richard founded Saviah back in 2000. From what began as 300 case production winery, production has steadily increased and the quality of the overall lineup continues to rise. 

Richard and his wife, Anita, are both natives of Montana who moved to Walla Walla in 1991 and later planted their first vineyard in 2001. Saviah is a family name from Anita’s great-grandmother, a schoolteacher, artist and author, who settled in western Montana in the early 1900s.  

Richard has a background in microbiology, and years ago worked as the Environmental Health Specialist with the Walla Walla County Health Department. He is a brilliant, self-taught winemaker. Richard has assisted several wineries with their start-up processes and served as the winemaker for Watermill Winery from 2006-2009, àMaurice winery from 2005-2006 and also has served as a consulting winemaker for several new wineries. He has crafted some gorgeous wines from the 2017 vintages. 

He has a penchant for making some top class Rose an his new edition is made from Sangiovese grapes, the 2019 Saviah Rose (WWB, 91) which has bright acidity and downright juicy red fruits. Do not miss out on a stunning value, the 2017 Saviah ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah (WWB, 93) which has amazing range and decadence. Even better is the 2017 Saviah ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah (WWB, 95) which is one of the great Syrah wines that I have tasted so far this year. The terroir is insanely good, as is the soft, pillowy texture and wonderful rocky tones. Learn more about this outstanding winery at https://www.saviahcellars.com/ Here are the beautiful new wines by Saviah.

2019 Saviah Rose- Made from Barbera and Sangiovese grapes from the Dugger Creek Vineyard, the 2019 Saviah Rose is another gorgeous new bottling by Richard Funk. While the nose shows faint red fruits, the palate is juicy and ripe with mouth-watering acidity and gobs of minerals that greet you with the melon and red fruit tones. Delightful to savor in its youth, this awesome new Rose will cellar well for another five years. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Saviah ‘GSM’ Red Wine- Sourced from the Yakima Valley, this is primarily Grenache with small portions Syrah and Mourvedre. Soft, round and generous, the palate unveils bright red fruits with smoky tones and citrus rind accents. The combination of tension, mouthfeel and weight is seriously good. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Saviah ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from four different Walla Walla Valley Vineyards, the Saviah ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows nice sandalwood with graphite, mocha and tar aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is plush, showing a downright delightful mouthfeel and soft texture. Layers of dark fruits mingle with tar, black licorice candy, and a light dusting of cocoa powder. This is seriously good stuff to savor in its youth, as the ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon will provide drinking enjoyment for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2017 Saviah ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon by Saviah is another masterpiece by the talented Richard Funk of Saviah. Sourced from the McClellan Estate and Annie Marie Vineyards, the Cabernet shows heady aromatics of dark currants that meld with dark chocolate shavings, tar and black licorice that all march in unison. The palate is dense and decadent with layers of blackberry compote, black licorice candy, creosote and suggestions of Turkish coffee. The long finish lingers as this massive, yet elegant wine has some incredible aging potential. Be sure to give this at least an hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2038- 94

2015 Saviah ‘Hunt & Gather’ Red Wine- I can’t recall a Walla Walla Rocks District being made from equal parts Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Nonetheless, this is an awesome effort by superstar winemaker Richard Funk that has some beautiful aging potential. The nose is pure rocks with its vein of stony character that mingles with black cherry compote, sagebrush, Umami and suggestions of black tea. The palate is exceedingly elegant, as the rich mouthfeel gives off an err of decadence. Layers of dark fruits mingle with seaweed, Hoisin sauce, wild blackberry pie and wet stone accents. Truly one of a kind, the 2015 ‘Hunt & Gather’ Red Wine is absolutely gorgeous to enjoy now at the five year mark, and will provide drinking enjoyment for the next eight to ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 94

2017 Saviah ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah-  The 2017 ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah is a sensational follow up to the downright scintillating 2016 bottling by Richard Funk. The nose captivates the senses with Umami and seaweed character that meld with charcuterie, green olive tapenade and suggestions of blackberry cobbler. The palate is wonderfully textured with layers of huckleberry and blackberry compote that march with black tea, exotic spices, meat drippings and Umami. Soft, generous and showing outstanding length, this is simply a complete wine that has amazing elegance, texture and true Rocks terroir. This is truly remarkable in its youth, so why wait? Drink 2020-2028- 95

Raptor Ridge

As we continue our march through Oregon Wine Month we bring you one great historic Oregon house that is crafting some seriously good wines. Founded back in 1995, Raptor Ridge almost immediately gained national acclaim for their Pinot Noirs. Founder and co-winemaker, Scott Shull, first started making terroir driven wines in 1995. Originally from Missouri, Scott is a self-taught winemaker, having learned by doing, reading, and attending extension service courses on viticulture and enology offered by U.C. Davis and Oregon State University.

Shannon Gustafson, combines with Scott Shull to make a great team. Shannon has been making wine out of her hometown of Paso Robles, CA for the past fourteen years. Having previously worked harvests in McLaren Vale, Shannon worked as winemaker for Hawks View winery in Oregon prior to coming to Raptor Ridge. The new releases were gorgeous across the board. I absolutely love her new 2019 Raptor Ridge ‘Vineyard Select’ Rose (WWB, 91) which has awesome tension and bright red fruits. I was massively impressed with their 2017 Raptor Ridge ‘Barrel Select’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which is a silky smooth Pinot that has the poise and richness to go on for another decade or more. Learn more about this fantastic historic Oregon winery at http://www.raptorridgewinery.com Here are the great new releases by Raptor Ridge. 

2019 Raptor Ridge ‘Vineyard Select’ Rose-The 2019 ‘Vineyard Select’ Rose is an awesome new wine by Shannon Gustafson. Lighter red fruits connect with shades of teaberry and orange zest on the nose. The palate is delicate but beautifully textured with shades of rose water that collide with minerals, red cherry candy and suggestions of guava puree. The mouth-watering acidity adds to the enjoyment as this is a delicate, nuanced and fresher style of Oregon Pinot Noir Rose. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 Raptor Ridge ‘Barrel Select’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Barrel Select’ Pinot Noir by Raptor Ridge is another awesome bottling from this Oregon mainstay. Bright red currants and peat moss tones fill the nose alongside shades of citrus zest on this beautiful bouquet. The feeling of texture is seriously good. Juicy red and dark fruits march with minerals and earthy tones on the palate. While the wine has obviously good weight, the freshness and texture provide a seamless effect mid-palate. This is seriously good stuff that will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2032- 93

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

Instagram Live This Week

Friends,

Please join me this week as we offer another tantalizing lineup of winemakers on Instagram Live, all times Pacific. Wednesday May 13th at 4PM we kick off with the talented Cameron Parry of @grothwines talking about his spectacular new ‘Reserve’ Cabernet that hit the Wine Spectator’s Top 10 wines last year. Thursday we have legendary Washington winemaker Chris Upchurch from his own @upchurchvineyard at 4PM. Friday May 15th join me with two younger, seriously talented winemakers, Seth Kitzke of @upsidedownwine and Will Camarda of @andrewwillwinery at 4&5PM. The excitement starts Wednesday at 4PM, hope to see you then 🍷

Quilceda Cares

I wanted to alert you all to some incredible charity work done by Quilceda Creek. We all know that sommeliers have been amongst hardest hit financially during this difficult time of COVID-19. Quilceda Creek has supported our sisters and brothers in the wine industry by donating three 3L bottles of our 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley, Galitzine Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, and Palengat Proprietary Red Wine to the Restaurant Employees Relief Fund which is a national fund to help employees in need.

I am proud to share that the #quilcedacares campaign has raised $365.000 to benefit those hit hardest during this pandemic. Lets raise a glass to Quilceda Creek for their incredible work benefiting the restaurant employees.

White Rose

One of the great Dundee Hills estates, I fondly remember visiting this winery many years back in the pouring rain. The late Jesus Guillen was one of my first winemaker interviews for Washington Wine Blog and had a smile that would light up a room as his wines would brighten all the faces that would come by their cozy Dundee Hills tasting room.  Taking over for Jesus at White Rose, Tresider Burns comes from Brittan Vineyard pedigree, having trained under eminent winemaker Robert Brittan. Tresider is an awesome guy to chat wines with and his new wines were sensational across the board.

The new release wines from the warm 2018 vintage by White Rose are gorgeous across the board. The 2018 White Rose ‘Neo-Classical Objective’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) has an incredible texture and depth with earthy tones. Even better is the 2018 White Rose ‘White Rose Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which is dense and exceedingly good range. Learn more about White Rose at https://whiteroseestate.com and if you are feeling generous, please consider donating to the family of Jesus Guillen here: https://www.gofundme.com/jesus-guillen

2018 White Rose ‘The Neo-Classical Objective’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘Neo-Classical Objective’ Pinot Noir shows beautiful red and dark fruits on the nose with sage and damp earthy tones that all combine marvelously in the glass. The palate is silky with a wonderful richness and soft mouthfeel. Layers of ripe red fruits dance with the peat moss and citrus rind accents on the palate. This is exceedingly well-made, as this sturdy Pinot Noir will enjoy a decade or more ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2018 White Rose ‘The Convivial Feast’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘The Convivial Feast’ shows exotic spices and a lovely dark earthy core, with red fruits that dance with suggestions of white pepper on this exotic nose. The palate is silky and elegant, with bright gran-pomegranate, orange zest an shades of damp earth that mingle with minerals. The mouth-watering acidity and long finish provide the great crescendo. Enjoy this great new Pinot Noir over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2018 White Rose ‘Guillen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- A sensational new wine,  the 2018 ‘Guillen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is a masterpiece by the talented Tresider Burns. A whiff of white pepper brilliantly melds with a deep core of damp earth, wild mushroom and blackberry cobbler on this exceedingly good bouquet. The palate has gobs of mouth-watering acidity as the silky texture makes this deftly glide across the mid-palate, unveiling copious red and dark fruits with minerals and earthy undertones. A gorgeous wine to savor in its youth, the simply outstanding 2018 ‘Guillen Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will enjoy a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2018 White Rose ‘White Rose Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘White Rose Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is a simply magical new bottling that will have a very long life ahead of it. The nose is nothing short of sensational, with awesome range from white truffle shavings, cigar box and wild blackberry compote, with a dusting of white pepper and exotic spices that all take shape in the glass. The silky mouthfeel entices, as does the wonderful combination of weight and acidity. Dense and layered, this gorgeous effort has beautiful length and will provide drinking enjoyment for decades to come. Drink 2020-2035- 94

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