Gård Vintners

A fantastic producer of terroir-driven Washington red and white wines from the Royal Slope, Gård Vintners was founded by brothers Sandy and John Lawrence, who have farmed the Royal Slope for more than 50 years, along with John’s son Josh, who joined the operation in 2002. The winery is managed by Josh and his wife, Lisa, who oversees sales and marketing, while Josh oversees the vineyard and other farm and orchard operations. Currently Josh, Lisa and a host of others are petitioning to have the Royal Slope region become its own AVA as the wines from this terroir are quite different than those from nearby Wahluke Slope and other regions. Gård Vintners relies on the winemaking talents of Aryn Morell for their wines who has been at the helm since 2011. Aryn has a very methodical, scientific approach to his winemaking, as each wine has a beginning, middle and an end. He crafts some of the most consistently good wines in the state. 

I loved the new lineup for Gård Vintners across the board. Aryn has developed a sterling reputation for his Rose wines and his new 2019 Gård Vintners ‘Grand Klasse’ Rose (WWB, 91) shows wonderful texture and really good range as well. I loved his 2017 Gård Vintners ‘Vaucluse’ Red Wine (WWB, 92) which is a classy wine at a great price, showing awesome terroir and smoky tones. Learn more about these great wines at gardvintners.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Gård Vintners.

2019 Gård Vintners ‘Grand Klasse’ Rose- The 2019 ‘Grand Klasse’ Rose delivers downright awesome rose water, melon and mineral tones on the palate. Beautifully textured with great tension and earthy undertones, this highly nuanced Rose will be best enjoyed over the next several years. Drink 2020-2023- 91

2019 Gård Vintners ‘Freyja’ White Wine- The 2019 ‘Freyja’ shows pretty honeysuckle tones that connect with shades of pear and nectarine rind and gooseberry on this expressive nose. The freshness is great, as is the silky texture that delivers bright peach and green apple flavors with vanilla cream accents. Enjoy this in its youth while the bright veil of tension remains. Drink 2020-2024- 91

2017 Gård Vintners ‘Vaucluse’ Red Wine- The ‘Vaucluse’ shows pretty thyme and lavender tones that combine with the bright red fruits, citrus rind and bulls blood tones on the nose. The palate is seriously good, with downright awesome range from citrus rind and smoke to Hoisin sauce and floral tones with smoky accents. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 Gård Vintners ‘The Don’ Red Wine- ‘The Don’ is a great value wine that shows great balance with medium-bodied chocolate and black fruit tones, with a light salinity. Forward and delicious, enjoy this in the short-term. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2017 Gård Vintners ‘Winemaker’s Select’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Lawrence Vineyard, the ‘Winemaker’s Select’ Cabernet Sauvignon delivers heady blackberry compote and mocha tones with sagebrush accents on the nose. The palate offers good freshness with a seamless texture. Medium to full bodied dark fruits alongside refined tannins line this great new wine that will cellar well for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2032- 92

Rasa Vineyards

‘I think these are some of the best wines we have made,’ Billo Naravane, MW proudly proclaimed. I think he was right. One of the most talented winemakers on the west coast and also one of the nicest people you will meet,  Billo Naravane, MW is the brilliant mastermind behind all Rasa Vineyards bottlings. Alongside his brother, Pinto Naravane, Billo crafts very precise and singular expressions of Washington State terroir. His new lineup of wines is truly one of the best in the state — from crisp Rieslings to inky Syrahs.

Billo Naravane initially was inspired by wine while working in the computer world and living Austin, Texas. During that time Billo was exposed to some of the finest wines in the world and he fully caught the wine bug. Finally, he and his brother, Pinto, made the bold decision to start Rasa Vineyards in 2007. My first exposure to these great wines was many years back when I was served a 2007 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED’ Syrah blind. I was absolutely mesmerized by the seamless quality of the wine. With a bachelor’s degree from MIT and a master’s degree from Stanford, Billo then studied viticulture an enology at UC Davis. He is now one of the few masters of wine (MW) in the world. The wines he crafts show tremendous texture, richness, poise and terroir — and are only getting better by each vintage. 

I loved these wines, mostly from the warm 2016 vintage, across the board. Billo has said that “2016 we cut the canopy back to slow the ripening and get good acidity. Even though this was one of our warmest years, we were able to get some really good acidity in the wine. We didn’t want to add any acid to the wines because we handed things in the vineyard so well.” 

The Bordeaux style wines all showed bright acidity despite the obvious heat of the vintage. Billo noted “Around July 20th I was tracking the heat units and at that time I went to the vineyard managements and I hedged the canopy by 30%, and they were all surprised. I needed to slow down ripening and every leaf o the vine is a sugar producing factory so then I would be ripening too fast. But making that call was a bit risky because we didn’t know what the weather was going to do but in hind sight this was the right call. We were able to maintain the fresh acidity.” 

I was blown away once again by the 2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘The Composer’ Riesling (WWB, 93) which is amongst the best of its kind in North America. The Syrah wines by Billo were just incredible and I loved the 2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘Principia Reserve’ Syrah (WWB, 96) which is a masterful effort that shows incredible aromatic and flavor range. 2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘For the Love of the Game’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 96) which is one of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines from Washington that I have sampled over the past year. Learn more about this fantastic Walla Walla winery at rasavineyards.com Here are the gorgeous new wines by Rasa Vineyards. 

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘The Composer’ Riesling- The 2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘The Composer’ shows marvelous acidity and texture that you want in a dry, one of a kind, Alsace style Riesling. Right out of the gate this Riesling shows petrol aromas with shades of Japanese pear and starfruit that mingle in the glass. The palate is bone dry with good freshness and texture. Lemon rind and unripe cantaloupe with baking spices dominate the palate. The exceedingly long finish lingers. While marvelous to enjoy in its youth, the combination of freshness and weight suggests this will cellar brilliantly for at least another eight years. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘Dream Deferred’ Chardonnay- The 2018 ‘Dream Deferred’ Chardonnay was sourced from the Frenchman Hills Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope AVA. Mango and ripe pineapple combine with shades of nectarine rind, cloves and vanilla cream on the nose. The palate shows terrific verve, with great depth and concentration. Layers of vanilla cream and banana mingle with baking spice infused Challah bread and nutty as well as damp earth undertones and a faint dusting of salinity. A complete wine, this is sinfully good in its youth and will provide drinking enjoyment for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2019 Rasa Vineyards ‘Occam’s Razor’ White Wine- The 2019 ‘Occam’s Razor’ white wine is a new wine made by Rasa Vineyards. The Pinot Gris is slightly pink-hued as this wine saw extended skin contact and shows a great bouquet of Macadamia nut and cantaloupe with shades of saline drenched pear. The palate is wonderfully textured, as this is round and generous, revealing a silky mouthfeel. Ripe nectarine and baked apple flavors mingle with minerals and vanilla cream tones on the palate. This is seriously good stuff for the price. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘Occam’s Razor’ Red Wine-  This awesome value blend shows smoky and sagebrush tones that meld with the core of dark fruits on the nose. The freshness is impressive as the wine delivers medium-bodied layers of dark berries with chocolate and sagebrush undertones on the palate. While not the most complex, this is delicious wine to savor in the short-term. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED Convergence’ Red Wine- A blend of mainly Syrah (69%) with smaller portions Mourvedre, Grenache and Viognier, this shows orange blossom with ripe red and dark fruits with chocolate and sandalwood tones on the nose.The palate is silky smooth with a voluptuous mouthfeel but the wine maintains a good degree of freshness. A light dusting of salinity runs thorough the core of red and dark fruits, with orange rind undertones. The freshness and sense of mouthfeel is outstanding. You have to admire the high tones of this wine from the Viognier that really add to the experience. A complete wine, this scintillating new release will cellar well for another decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED Reductio ad Absurdum’ Syrah- This Columbia Valley bottling shows gorgeous underbrush undertones alongside smoked brisket, dark currants and kirsch cordial tones that all mingle in unison on the nose. The palate is fresh and vibrant, showing a great veil of tension that runs through the core of dark currants, blackberry compote, creosote and cocoa powder flavors, with saline accents rounding out this great Syrah. Delicious in its youth, the ‘QED Reductio ad Absurdum’ Syrah will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED Choice Function’ Cabernet Franc- Sourced from mainly the Weinbau Vineyard (roughly 75%) with the remainder Firethorn Vineyard, the ‘Choice Function’ opens with pretty, high toned red rose petal tones with shades of red currants, cocoa powder and a hint of red bell pepper. Silky smooth through the mid-palate, the Cabernet Franc reveals a seamless mid-palate with a light dusting of salinity. This is impeccably balanced wine, and while not showing a massive weight this has some seriously good right bank appeal. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, I can see the ‘Choice Function’ providing drinking enjoyment for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED The Strong Law’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘QED The Strong Law’ is a downright awesome wine that was sourced from a host of vineyards including Bacchus, Dionysus, DuBrul, and the Kiona Vineyard. A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon with the reminder Merlot, the 2016 ‘QED The Strong Law’ shows toasty oak with black currants, florals, blackberry compote and mocha aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is plush, showing elegant tannins that line the layers black fruits with cocoa powder alongside great freshness and richness. This has a seamless effect mid-palate that is truly inviting, as the long finish lingers. Great to enjoy right now, the 2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED The Strong Law’ will provide drinking enjoyment for more than a decade to come. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2018 Rasa Vineyards ‘Tilting At Windmills’ Red Wine- A truly great wine, the 2018 ‘Tilting at Windmills’ is superstar winemaker Billo Naravane, MW’s homage to the great wines of Priorat. Sourced from the ‘XL Vineyard’ this is a blend of mostly Grenache (54%) with the remainder near equal parts Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The aromatics jump out of the glass with pretty red rose petal tones that mingle with shades of with orange blossom and star jasmine that collide with the core of red and dark fruits. The palate is silky smooth with a soft mouthfeel and velvety texture. Layer of Bing cherry, cigar box and anise combine with the bright sense of minerality on the palate. The long finish lingers. Be sure to give this at least a one hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘Principia Reserve’ Syrah- Sourced from a core of old vine Bacchus, fruit with a touch coming from the Upland and SJR Vineyard, the 2016 ‘Principia Reserve’ is a barrel selection wine that saw extended barrel age before bottling. This was aged in 25% new French oak for 22 months before bottling and underwent 50% whole cluster fermentation.The nose is nearly intoxicating with its smoky and damp earth tones that combine with shades of black currant jelly and blackberry pie that all mingle in the glass. The palate is marvelously balanced, showing a silky texture and wonderful sense of mouthfeel. The mouth-watering acidity catches you off guard but in a good way. Fresh and vibrant, the weight here is also truly outstanding as this wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. This is Billo Naravane, MW, at his best. Drink 2020-2035- 96

2017 Rasa Vineyards ‘Veritas Sequitur’ Grenache/Syrah- This is the first year that Billo Naravane has made this incredible wine. The Grenache entirely aged in natural oak while the Syrah saw 20% new oak before bottling. The wine is a stunning blend of 71% Grenache with 29% Syrah which was entirely sourced from the ‘SJR Vineyard’ in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA. Pretty red rose petals, red cherry candy and orange rind combine with shades of Hoisin sauce and Umami tones on this exotic nose. The palate is silky smooth with wonderful freshness and a great sense of elegance. The seamless effect on the mid-palate is nothing short of captivating, as is the exceedingly long finish that provides the crescendo. Vibrant and youthful, this beautiful wine will cellar well for another decade — but why wait? Drink 2020-2028- 96

2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘Veritas Sequitur’ Syrah- The 2016 ‘Veritas Sequitur’ is a stunning wine that is truly one of a kind Syrah from the famed ‘SJR Vineyard’ in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA. Fermented in puncheons, the perfumed nose is snippy incredible with horse manure, white truffle, green olive tapenade, bacon fat and gobs of Umami that all sing in harmony in the glass. The aromatic range is truly profound and takes you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The palate is silky smooth and seamless, as this effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Showing great texture, verve, weight and elegance, this wine truly has it all. Smoky and damp earth tones combine with seaweed, blood orange zest, smoked pork shoulder, and a core of red and dark fruits on the palate. The aromatic and flavor range is nothing short of magical. Sinfully good in its youth, this beautiful wine will provide drinking enjoyment for another decade. This is ‘wow factor’ stuff. Drink 2020-2028- 97

2017 Rasa Vineyards ‘Plus One’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 Rasa Vineyards ‘Pius One’ was entirely sourced from the Kiona Vineyard which was first planted in 1973. The wine was aged in 50% new oak and all four year stave barrels before bottling. Translucent in the glass, the nose shows highly perfumed aromatics with shades of potpourri and suggestions of baking spices that collide with a deep core of wild blackberry cobbler and mocha that all come together in the glass. Once on the mouth the wine is seamless, effortlessly gliding across the mid-palate. The palate shows refined tannins that line a deep core of dark fruit with loads of non-fruit flavors from herbal undertones to milk chocolate. This drinks like a great warm vintage left bank Bordeaux. With great length the gorgeous 2017 ‘Plus One’ has the potential to cellar well for decades. Drink 2020-2038- 95

2017 Rasa Vineyards ‘For The Love of the Game’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the ‘Wallula Vineyard’ this wine was aged in 60% new French oak prior to bottling. And after trying this beautiful wine I am somewhat surprised that this is translucent in color when you consider the great weight of the wine. Charcoal and anise with suggestions of baking spices, black currant jelly and Turkish coffee tones all entice on the nose. The wine has marvelous sense of balance and texture, creating a seamless effect. Full-bodied, yet elegant, the ‘For The Love of the Game’ shows pretty rose water undertones that meld with suggestions of pipe tobacco, Black Forest Cake, exotic spices and black currants. The length of the wine is truly exceptional. Seamless and simply magical to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 Rasa Vineyards ‘For The Love of the Game’ Cabernet Sauvignon will be extremely long lived. Be sure to give this at least a two hour decant if enjoying right now. Drink 2020-2040- 96

2016 Rasa Vineyards ‘Fianchetto’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the ‘XL Vineyard’ this is a massive, gorgeous wine by Billo Naravane. The wine is a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon with 29% Merlot and 24% Cabernet Franc. Aged entirely in 100% new French oak barrels, this nose is hedonistic and downright intoxicating. Layers of creme de cassis, red rose petals, anise, blackberry compote and tar all collide on the nose. The palate is silky smooth as this creates a seamless effect mid-palate. Layers of cocoa powder and blackberry pie connect with gobs of mouth-watering acidity, a light salinity and tar tones. This has an impeccable sense of balance. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth this stunning wine will provide drinking enjoyment for decades to come. Be sure to give this a long decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2040- 95

Abeja

One of the most consistently producers of Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in Washington State, I have long admired the wines of Abeja, founded by John Abbott. Set in the foothills of Walla Walla’s Blue Mountains, Abeja has seven luxury cottages, creeks, and gardens on the 32 acre property. Abeja relies on the winemaking talents of Dan Wampfler and Amy Alvarez-Wampfler. Both Dan and Amy have roughly a combined 30 years of winemaking experience. They work closely together on the wines and craft truly one of the great overall lineups of wine. 

An outstanding Chardonnay, the 2018 Abeja ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) shines with its great texture and a silky mouthfeel. This beautiful wine has some good cellaring potential. One of the outstanding Merlots made in Washington, the 2017 Abeja Merlot (WWB, 94) is dense, chewy and downright delicious right now, also having some massive cellaring potential. Learn more about this outstanding winery at http://www.abeja.net/ Here are the great new wines by Abeja.

2018 Abeja ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay- Sourced from a host of vineyards, the 2018 ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay was aged for nine months in 100% new French oak before bottling. The nose is gorgeous with bright pear and citrus rind tones that mingle with vanilla cream and shades of baking spices that all march in unison in the glass. The palate is ripe and beautifully textured with layers of citrus zest, vanilla cream, baking spices and amazing length and tension. A light veil of salinity caps off what is truly an outstanding Chardonnay with some good aging potential. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Abeja ‘Columbia Valley’ Merlot- Sourced from a host of great vineyards this wine was aged in 48% new oak for nineteen months prior to bottling in May 2019. The tones of red bell pepper and milk chocolate covered Bing cherry sing with tobacco and sandalwood accents on this fantastic nose. The palate is silky smooth and remarkably textured, as this seamless wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Layers of red and dark fruits combine with coffee grounds and chocolate tones with sagebrush accents on the palate. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘Columbia Valley’ Merlot is a spectacular wine by a very talented winemaking team at Abeja. Be sure to give this a one hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2016 Abeja ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon by the talented team of Amy and Dan Wampfler is a gorgeous effort from this warm vintage in Washington. The aromatic expression entices from pencil lead to mocha and sagebrush alongside a deep core of dark fruits on the nose. The palate is silky smooth, with a wonderfully soft texture. Rich cassis and mocha flavors collide with minerals and shades of anise on the palate. Round and generous, with great length, the 2016 ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2021-2040- 94

2017 Abeja ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous new wine by Dan and Amy Wampfler. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon with 10% Merlot and a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this was aged in 45% new oak for 21 months before bottling. The palate is silky smooth, showing very refined tannins that line a deep core of dark fruits, chocolate fudge, baking spices and Turkish coffee flavors. While wonderfully balanced, this is deep, delicious wine that has plenty of hedonistic appeal. If enjoying in its youth, be sure to give this several hours of air. Drink 2021-2040- 94

Granville Wine Company

I love sharing new winery projects. A really exciting project out of Oregon, Granville Wine Company has its roots deeply rooted in Oregon viticulture. Jackson and Ayala Holstein founded their winery paying homage to Jackson’s father who was a viticulturist. As a child Jackson spent time pruning vines and washing bins and didn’t fall in love with Oregon wine until college when he and his wife found their calling. They began making wine as a hobby and also worked at wineries and traveled to international wine growing regions. 

They work with their father’s vineyard which they lease to craft really good wines. I was really impressed by their 2018 Granville Wine Company ‘Spirit Hill Vineyard’ Chardonnay (WWB, 92) which is a famed site that Argyle has sourced from for so many years. This wine has great nutty tones alongside a great veil of tension. The best wine I tried was the 2018 Granville Wine Company ‘Holstein Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which is deep and dark, showing a silky mouthfeel and wonderful tension. Learn more about these great new wines at http://www.granvillewines.com Here are the new wine releases by Granville Wine Company. 

2018 Granville Wine Company ‘Spirit Hill Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Sourced from the famed ‘Spirit Hill Vineyard’ the 2018 Chardonnay shows buttercream and hazelnut tones alongside shades of Pink Lady apple on the nose. The freshness here is downright awesome as lemon vanilla cream and baked apple flavors combine with the nutty undertones. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2018 Granville Wine Company ‘Farmhouse Cuvee’ Pinot Noir- Layers of red fruits dance with peat moss and cardamom infused citrus rind tones on the nose. Fresh and nicely textured, this delivers a good range of bright red fruits with shades of peat moss and forest floor accents. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2018 Granville Wine Company ‘Murto Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Seaweed and bright red fruits fill the nose with shades of salted earth that all take shape in the glass. The palate is plush and beautifully textured with delicate red fruits with great finesse and elegance. The fainter earthy tones add to the enjoyment. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2018 Granville Wine Company ‘Holstein Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from the Holstein Vineyard located in the Dundee Hills AVA, the day fruit tones really sing aromatically with damp volcanic earthy accents. The palate has gobs of mouth-watering acidity and freshness, showing deep layers of wild blackberry and huckleberry flavors with citrus rind and forest floor tones that entice. The silky mouthfeel accentuates this great new wine. Drink 2020-2030- 93

Corison

I love Napa with restraint. Talking a walk into the more elegant side of Napa, we bring you famed Corison Winery, founded in 1987 by legendary winemaker Cathy Corison. At that time Cathy Corison started purchasing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from prime vineyards between Rutherford and St. Helena. Her first wines were made at other spaces that she rented out and she made the great decision to purchase the Kronos Vineyard in 1995 which was a historic property that had been a farm for over a century and she finally built her estate vineyard as well as the spot for her winery. She later purchased the Sunbasket Vineyard in 2015 which is located near the winery location.

Cathy’s wines have received a massive amount of critical acclaim over the years. A graduate of the masters in Enology program at UC Davis, Cathy previously served as Chappellet winemaker prior to starting her own winery. Corison is known for her classic style of creating a Bordelaise, more restrained style to Napa wines. If you have never had the opportunity to try these beautiful wines, you will find them to be highly elegant and a wonderful contrast to wines that simply focus on power or concentration. Her wines are highly age-worthy as the winery even has a program that releases their older wines and I have found these wines to age exceptionally well. Her new release Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Corison ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 95) is highly elegant and has very soft tannins and a gorgeous sense of mouthfeel. Even better is her downright thrilling 2016 Corison ‘Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 97) which is silky smooth and shows glorious aromatic and flavor ange.. Learn more about these beautiful and elegant Napa wines at https://corison.com/ Here is my reviews of the new Corison wines. 

2016 Corison Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 Corison Cabernet Sauvignon is a thrilling, seamless wine that is both powerful and elegant. On the nose there are dark currants woven together with shades of graphite, tobacco leaf and silty soil that all meld in the glass. The palate has wonderful weight and depth, yet has a seamless factor that makes this effortlessly glide across the mid-palate. Layers of boysenberry preserves and coffee grounds come together with suggestions of creme de cassis and tar on the palate. Highly refined, this memorable effort will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2038- 95

2016 Corison ‘Helios Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- Sourced from this famed St. Helena site, the 2016 ‘Helios Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc shows beautiful aromatics of violets and ripe red fruits that mingle with tar and shades of loamy terroir on the exotic bouquet. The palate is seamlessly textured and highly elegant as this wine effortlessly glides across the midpalate. Loganberry preserves, leather, damp earth and shades of red bell pepper and ripe blueberry flavors all come together on the palate. The flavor range imparted is insanely good, as this finishes with great length and finesse. I love the sense of elegance in this wine. Cathy Corison has crafted another masterpiece as her 2016 ‘Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc will  surely enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2038- 96

2016 Corison ‘Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- One of the wonderful wines that I have savored from Napa over the past year, the 2016 Corison ‘Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a scintillating new bottling my eminent producer Cathy Corison.  Needing a two hour decant to be fully aroused, once awoken you are greeted to an exquisite aromatic range — from red bell pepper to sagebrush and loamy terroir, chocolate and dense black fruits that all parade in the glass. The palate has good weight and structure, showing off the trademark seamless factor that Corison crafts. Layers of dark fruits are woven together with herbal undertones, pipe tobacco, damp earth and shades of dark chocolate covered espresso bean. This is nearly impossible to put down once opened. A delight to savor in its youth, the 2016 Corison ‘Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon will cellar well for many decades to come. Drink 2020-2040- 97

Instagram Live This Week

Instagram Live This Week

Friends, we have a spectacular lineup of winemakers and wineries this week, spanning the globe and all times Paciifc Standard Time. Join me Wednesday at 4PM as I share the great new Canvasback releases with winemaker Brian Rudin. Thursday is jam packed full of action starting at 3PM with famed winemaker Bob Bertheau talking his brilliant new set of Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling releases. At 4PM we check in with Mark Ryan himself, tasting a range of his wines from fresh Chardonnay to inky Cabernet Sauvignon. Finally at 5PM we check in with Ashley Trout of Vital Wines, talking about her awesome new lineup.

Friday we journey across the Atlantic to Spain and one of the great Cava producers, Mestres at 12:00 Pacific. At 2PM I taste with Nate Klostermann of Argle, as we revel in a vertical tasting of his famed ‘Nuthouse’ Pinot Noir. At 3PM Shannon Gustafson of Raptor Ridge joins me to taste a range of their beautiful white wines and Pinot Noir releases. Finally at 4PM I am joined by Matt Wengel of Lemelson as we taste their awesome new lineup of wines.

Please join us for this very special action packed week here at Washington Wine Blog from your smart phones, tablets or computers.

Chateau de Beaucastel

A famed house the southern Rhone region of France, Chateau de Beaucastel produces some of the finest Châteauneuf du Pape in the world. Everyone who has tried this famous wine can think back to their first bottle of Chateau de Beaucastel. I recall my first one while I was in college, enjoying the absolutely epic 1998 Chateau de Beaucastel. I remember the stunning combination of weight and tension in the bottle — one that literally begs you to enjoy more. I have very fond memories of a 1989 Chateau de Beaucastel, one of the famed vintages for this wine that I had the pleasure of enjoying with friends several years back. 

The region of Chateauneuf du Pape has an incredible history and was was first mentioned in 11th century historical records. The town of Avignon in this region was the previous site of the papacy, following a Roman invasion. Bertrand de Got, archbishop of Bordeaux, was elected pope in 1305, and took the name of Clement V as he transferred the papacy from Rome to Avignon in 1309. The register of pontifical letters reveals that Clement V visited Châteauneuf on several occasions, sometimes for long periods of time.

It is quite clear that wine had some influence in this region before the arrival of the papacy but there are no actual historical records of wine or vineyards prior to this time. We do know that most of the wine grown in this region prior to the 18th century was drunk within a year, which was true to the cultural times. It wasn’t until 1923 when local wine producers led the way to have their wines classified as Châteauneuf-du-Pape Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) was formed.

Chateau de Beaucastel has a longstanding history in Châteauneuf du Pape. The winery is named after the Beaucastel family which lived in this region in the 16th century. Records show a Pierre de Beaucastel buying a barn and some associated land at Coudoulet in 1549, and this land is still part of Château de Beaucastel's holdings. In the 19th century, when the Phylloxera epidemic struck the region, the owner decided not to replant the vineyards but rather to sell the property. In 1909, it was bought by Pierre Tramier, and the vineyards were rebuilt under his ownership. After him, his son-in-law Pierre Perrin took over management and expanded Château de Beaucastel's vineyard holdings considerably. The property has stayed in the Perrin family since.

In the past I have had the great fortune to sample some very old bottlings of this estate, back to the 1980s. These wines are extremely complex, acid driven and age-worthy. Chateau de Beaucastel is one of the few wineries that uses 13 different Rhone varietals in its Châteauneuf du Pape, and typically uses a high proportion of Mourvèdre. I was very impressed with the vertical tasting, as these wines show as well as any other estate in Châteauneuf du Pape. They also make highly sought after white blends that are absolutely some of the best of the region.

2017 was actually the driest vintage on record for Chateau de Beaucastel. What they have created is nothing short of a masterpiece. The 2017 Chateau de Beaucastel Châteauneuf du Pape (WWB, 95) is impeccably balanced and already shows very impressive aromatic and flavor range. This gorgeous wine will provide drinking enjoyment for fifteen to twenty years. Learn more about this famed estate at http://www.beaucastel.com Here is the gorgeous new Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape. 

2017 Chateau de Beaucastel Châteauneuf du Pape- The thrilling 2017 Chateau de Beaucastel Châteauneuf du Pape is a scintillating new wine by Marc Perrin. The final blend is 30% both Grenache and Mourvedre, 10% Counoise, 10% to varietals Vaccarèse, Terret Noir, Muscardin, Clairette, Picpoul, Picardan, Bourboulenc, Roussanne and 5% Cinsault. Needing a one hour decant to be fully aroused, the 2017 Chateau de Beaucastel shows nice stony and smoky tones with green olive tapenade, huckleberry, herbs de Provence, and shades of Umami. The palate shows amazing freshness and astringency, with a seamless texture and marvelous mouthfeel. Rich black fruits mingle with shades of saline dusted red currants, Kalmata olive tapenade, bulls blood, smoked pork shoulder and menthol tones that all sing in harmony on the palate. Lively, with a great veil of tension and showing great weight, this beautiful wine is only an infant at this juncture and will provide drinking enjoyment for decades to come. Drink 2020-2038- 95

Bledsoe-McDaniels

A brand new project by NFL Legend Drew Bledsoe and superstar wineamker, Josh McDaniels, Bledsoe-McDaniels is a new Oregon wine project from this Walla Walla mainstay. For many years Josh had been wanting to make great Oregon Pinot Noir. He explained “I love working with Pinot Noir- it forces you to be a great grower and a great winemaker. I feel like I have learned more about making Cabernet from making Pinot Noir in fact- being a thin skinned and generally delicate varietal, it shows everything and you have to be exact and pay great attention to detail.” He admitted to have some experience with the varietal while working for Figgins Family in 2011 and is excited about what he considers a ‘great vintage’ with the new 2018 release.

I have been very impressed with the red and white wines from the 2018 vintage in Oregon, one that saw severe heat spikes throughout the Willamette Valley, but also saw smooth sailing at harvest. The 2018 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) is a marvelous wine showing great length and aromatic/flavor range. It is thrilling stuff to enjoy now and will cellar well for more than a decade. Josh also made a killer new release from the ‘Lefore Vineyard’ in the Walla Walla Rocks District AVA. The 2018 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘Lefore Vineyard’ Syrah (WWB, 94) underwent mostly whole-cluster fermentation and is only an infant in its youth. The aromatic range is gorgeous as this wine will need some air if enjoying right now. Learn more about this truly exciting new winery project at http://bledsoemcdaniels.com/#top Here are the beautiful new wines by Bledsoe-McDaniels. 

 2018 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- Largely sourced from the Ridgecrest Vineyard with vines planted in the 1980s, the vineyard is a cooler site that is the oldest in the Ribbon Ridge AVA. Right out of the gate the wine evokes a massive core of red fruits that mingle with peat moss, blood orange zest and exotic spices that take shape in the glass. The palate is silky smooth and elegant, showing a seamless effect. Gobs of mouth-watering acidity fill the palate, connecting with red currants, forest floor and black truffle crudo flavors alongside a silky mouthfeel. This has not only marvelous length but gorgeous texture. Soft, round and generous, this complete wine is fantastic to enjoy in its youth but will provide drinking enjoyment for many years to come. Give this a one hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2018 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘Lefore Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2018 Bledsoe-McDaniels Syrah is a head-turning wine made by superstar winemaker Josh McDaniels. The Syrah underwent 75% whole cluster fermentation and was aged in 33% new French oak barrels and mostly used 500L puncheons before bottling. Layers of red fruits combine with wet stone, iodine, green olive tapenade and bacon fat tones on the nose. The aromatic range is truly profound and takes you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The wine is beautifully textured and elegant with layers of cran-cherry, wild blackberry, Hoisin sauce and Umami all singing in unison on the palate. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, the 2018 ‘Lefore Vineyard’ Syrah will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 94

2013 Baer Retrospective

On some nights when I am not running through new wines I have the rare opportunity to dig through my personal collection and uncork something great. It has now been several years since I have had the chance to revisit the 2013 vintage by Baer, with superstar Erica Orr at the helm. She has graciously shared her thoughts about the 2013 vintage: 

“2013 was a hot summer with several heat spikes and then we had rain in September, looking back I think I waited a tick too long to pick in 13. The growing degree days for 2013 look to be pretty average but I am harvesting a week or more earlier now/in recent vintages than I did back then. We brought in the first Merlot for Baer on September 19, 2013 and started picking Cabernet Sauvignon in mid-October. Baer got a new de-stemmer in 2015 so I think that fewer jacks and stems in the fermenter together with my focus on picking with the intention to retain freshness has changed the style to be less tannic, with lower alcohol and more vibrancy in subsequent vintages. I'm also using a lower percentage of new French oak barrels these days…”

I chose two wines out of my cellar for this special tasting, the 2013 Baer ‘Ursa’ (42% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Franc, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot) and the 2013 Baer ‘Arctos’ (84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Petit Verdot) which were both absolutely singing. All grapes for both wines are sourced from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard which is a cooler site for red wine in the Columbia Valley. One thing I noticed was how much better these wines showed following a double decant and several hours in the ideacnter. This is a tribute to Erica’s highly Bordelaise style of winemaking. 

I have always admired the red wines produced in 2013 which I felt were a touch better than white wines from that vintage overall. At times as wine reviewers we fall in the trap of vintages that follow great vintages. 2012 overall as a vintage in Washington assuredly was great, but 2013 was also seriously good. The red wines from 2013 were generally powerful with good tannin structure and phenolic ripeness. These wines were a touch more opulent than those from 2012 but there were also some marvelously balanced wines made in ’13 — none more so than the Baer wines that I tasted. Here are my tasting notes from my 2013 Baer retrospective. For more info on the wines please visit baerwinery.com

2013 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine- The 2013 ‘Ursa’ is a compelling right bank style wine that is absolutely singing at now the seven year mark. The wine is a blend of 42% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Franc, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Petit Verdot , as this shows pretty red rose petals that combine with shades of cocoa powder and black cherry cordial with sagebrush accents on this decadent nose. The palate is plush, showing not only a bright acidity but a soft, supple mouthfeel. Layers of deep dark fruits are artfully woven together with suggestions of coffee grounds, black tea, exotic spices and creme de cassis. This is a harmonious, beautifully balanced wine that has every working part moving together. Enjoy the gorgeous 2013 ‘Ursa’ Red Wine over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2013 Baer ‘Arctos’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A blend of nearly all Cabernet Sauvignon (84%) with the remainder Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2013 ‘Arctos’ shows anise and creme de cassis with Turkish coffee and shades of blueberry compote on this compelling nose. The palate has outstanding freshness and comes of very warm vintage left bank Bordeaux. Layers of creme de cassis and espresso bean collide with damp earth, black olive, and blackberry compote flavors. Gorgeous to enjoy right now, the 2013 ‘Arctos’ really has anther fifteen years to go. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Utopia Vineyard

Today we bring you a fantastic boutique winery in Oregon. It was quite a search for the right site for Dan Warnshuis. Originally from Napa, Dan did some careful research before finding his Utopia Vineyard in the center of the Ribbon Ridge AVA. The vineyard underwent three plantings in 2005, 2008 and 2010 and is composed of 16.8 acres of south-facing hillsides with vines set on Willakenzie soils. The vineyard is planted to twelve clones of Pinot Noir and three low-yielding Dijon Chardonnay clones., Daniel created his first vintage of Pinot Noir nearly fifteen years ago in 2006. He serves as not only owner but also Utopia Vineyard winemaker.

The vineyard utilizes Sustainable Organic Farming practices, and has been L.I.V.E. certified since 2008. I have had the chance to try these wines on several occasions and they have been consistently good. The new releases are both outstanding, coming from the warm 2017 vintage. They are both wines that have really great range, texture and weight. Both are highly recommended for any serious lover of Oregon Pinot Noir. Learn more about these beautiful wines at https://www.utopiawine.com/ Here are my tasting notes of the great new 2017 releases from Utopia Vineyard.

2017 Utopia ‘The Utopia Vineyard’ Pinot Noir-Sourced from their Ribbon Ridge AVA estate, the ‘The Utopia Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows rich red fruit flavors that collide with copious minerals, forest floor and shades of Mandarin orange rind on the palate. The combination of verve and texture really entices. A complete, wine, this glorious new release will provide drinking enjoyment for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Utopia ‘Paradise Estate Reserve’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Paradise Estate Reserve’ is a silky new bottling from Utopia. On the nose this takes on lovely damp earth and peat moss tones that connect with the bright guava and strawberry tones that collect momentum in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, showing a soft texture and good sense of weight. Bright red fruits dance with shades of blood orange rind and forest floor tones on the palate. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

Tablas Creek Vertical Tasting

The pandemic has brought a series of massive challenges to most people. The widespread anxiety that I have seen in my clinical practice has been excruciating to see, as many jobs and even lives have been lost by this horrible disease. I’ve been doing my best to bring the wineries to people through a series of Instagram Live videos and a few weeks back it was a great honor to taste virtually with Jason Haas, General Manager of Tablas Creek . Jason has run a really fantastic and critically acclaimed Tablas Creek blog for many years. He is one of the foremost experts on his family winery, started by his father and California wine icon, Robert Haas, and the famed Perrin family of Chateau Beaucastel. Their first commercial vintage was 1997 and the rest has been history, as Tablas Creek has been one of the storied wineries not only in Paso Robles but in California.

I was first introduced to these wines while I was in graduate school in San Diego in 2003. Pretty soon there was a massive buzz about the Beaucastel influenced Tablas Creek wines as they were met with immediate critical acclaim from both Robert Parker and Wine Spectator. Jason has a great knowledge of the wines and vintages as I tasted with him and we talked about how the vintages were generally very consistent. Admittedly, there were a few surprises from my tasting. I was completely floored by the oldest wines that I tasted, both showing marvelous tertiary tones but in different ways. The 2000 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ Red Wine (WWB, 93) is simply magical at now the twenty year mark. I was surprised how bright this wine is, and while it is best enjoyed over the next several years, the aromatic and flavor range is nothing short of thrilling. Similarly the 2001 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel Blanc’ White Wine (WWB, 93) is still shining brightly. With 44% Roussanne, the nutty and beeswax tones are simply delightful, as the silky smooth mouthfeel delights. I was not surprised by their new release 2017 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Tablas’ Red Wine (WWB, 95) which was gorgeous right out of the gate, showing amazing freshness, tension and complexity. This is one for the cellar. Now at the eleven year mark, the 2009 Tablas creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ Red Wine (WWB, 95) is every bit as good as the new release ’17 and I was floored with the degree of acidity and range in this very pretty wine. I can see this beautiful wine cellaring well for at least another ten years. 

Needless to say, this was a highly memorable tasting with Jason as we reveled in truly some of the great, age-worthy wines out of Paso Robles. Learn more about these beautiful wines at https://tablascreek.com Here are my tasting notes from what was an incredible journey back into time with Tablas Creek. 

White Wines: 

2001 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel Blanc’ White Wine- A brightly colored blend of 44% Roussanne with 22% Viognier, 18% Grenache Blanc and 16% Marsanne, the nutty and melon aromatics literally fly out of the glass, with shades of lychee and honeysuckle playing second fiddle. The palate is silky smooth, showing an unctuous err, no doubt from the high proportion of Roussanne. Layers of banana, Macadamia nut, cantaloupe and Pink Lady apple collide with minerals, brioche and beeswax tones on the seductive palate. This is silky smooth at this juncture with a decade of life to go. Enjoy this on the warmer side, where the full aromatic and flavor range can be fully on parade. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2016 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit Blanc’ White Wine- Truly one of the outstanding Rhone style wines made in California, the 2016 ‘Espirit Blanc’ is a compelling blend of mainly Roussanne (75%), with smaller portions Grenache Blanc and Picpoul Blanc. Ripe banana and lychee aromatics meld with shades of starfruit, sourdough and saline drenched pear all take shape in the glass. The palate shows not only a wonderful sense of astringency but a silky smooth texture and an exceedingly long finish that lingers long on the tongue. Showing a marvelous combination of weight and acidity, the 2016 ‘Espirit Blanc’ is truly one of a kind wine that has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 95

Red Wines:

2000 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ Red Wine- Taken from an even growing season and still hanging tough, now at the twenty year mark, the 2000 ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ is a gorgeous blend of Mourvedre (35%), Syrah (26%), Grenache (25%) and Counoise (14%). Layers of kirsch cordial and smoky tones collide with baking spices and suggestions of Linzer torte that all meld together on the nose. The palate is silky smooth, offering a silky texture and downright delicious layers of black cherry compote, dried thyme, smoked brisket and black olive tapenade, with damp earth undertones. A complete wine at this stage, enjoy this over the next several years while the core of acidity remains. Drink 2020-2025- 93

2005 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ Red Wine- 2005 was another moderately warm vintage that saw gradual ripening in the vineyards. The 2005 ‘Espirit’ is primarily Mouvedre (44%) with 26% Grenache, 25% Syrah and a touch of Counoise. The ripeness is evident on the nose with rich red and dark fruits that collide with shades of coffee grounds, smoked brisket and green olive tapenade accents. The palate shows a very soft mouthfeel and wonderful length, delivering ripe currants, red cherry candy, bulls blood, and shades of black tea and exotic spices that all meld brilliantly together. The combination of weight and tension makes this really thrive. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 94

2009 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ Red Wine- One of my all-time favorite ‘Espirit’ bottlings, it has been several years since I have visited this beautiful wine. Running into the third consecutive year of regional drought, 2009 saw warm conditions but gradual ripening and lower than normal yields. The 2009 ‘Espirit de Beaucastel’ features mostly Mourvedre, Syrah and Grenache, with just a splash of Counoise. The high-toned perfumed aromatics from the Grenache really add to the enjoyment with potpourri and red rose petals that deftly combine with shades of red currants and red cherry candy alongside dusty terroir notes. The palate is seamless, effortlessly gliding across the mid-palate, delivering gorgeous layers of red fruits, creosote, green olive and baking spices. The extremely good length further accentuates this gorgeous bottling that has at least another decade of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 95

2013 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Tablas’ Red Wine- Sourced from another warm and drought vintage in Paso Robles, leading to slightly lower yields but excellent ripening. This wine is also mainly Mourvedre (40%) with smaller portions Syrah (28%), Grenache (22%) and Counoise (10%). Ripe red fruits dominate the nose with layers of bacon fat and green olive tapenade alongside dusty terroir on this evocative bouquet. The palate is layered and shows great acidity and weight, with an exceedingly long finish. Layers of bright red fruits dance with citrus rind, smoked brisket and shades of peat moss. Slightly more on the elegant side and fantastic to savor now, I can imagine this cellaring for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2017 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Tablas’ Red Wine- The 2017 ‘Espirit de Tablas’ Red Wine is another scintillating wine from this storied Paso Robles estate. This was for some a challenging vintage with severe heat spikes in August, which shut down vines in some sections of the region. The nose here is literally thrilling with high-toned red rose petals that collide with shades of guava puree, charcuterie and Black Forest Cake, creating seriously good range aromatically. The palate has wonderful depth and purity of fruit, with an err of elegance. Red cherry candy, guava puree, Mandarin orange rind and bulls blood flavors collide with minerals and smoky undertones on the palate. Only an infant right now, the 2017 ‘Espirit de Tablas’ red wine will be exceedingly long lived. Drink 2020-2035- 95

Quilceda Creek

It has been quite the year for Quilceda Creek. Whether it was being one of the only Washington wineries represented at Matter of Taste, Napa, joining me for 2020 Washington Wine Blog Critic’s Choice of Washington or being one of the lone featured Washington wineries in Decanter Magazine, Quilceda Creek has been crafting some thrilling new wines over the past several years. I had the honor of being the first person to taste the new Quilceda Creek wines from the 2017 vintage in December 2019 with superstar director of winemaking, Paul Golitzin. ‘We have good control of the vineyard now, which makes a huge difference especially in warm vintages, as we are able to cool things.’ Golitzin explained how he uses state of the art technology to monitor temperature at his Champoux Vineyard. Obviously from a hot site, as vintages become warmer and warmer, this technology becomes more paramount in helping create optimal conditions for phenolic ripening and ensuring that vines do not shut down. In April 2020 the Champoux Vineyard began a major replanting project which replaced aging Muscat, Chardonnay, Lemberger, and Marquette vines with specific clones of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Champoux will now be planted to 100% red Bordeaux varietals which benefits both the winery and the consumer.

Quilceda Creek also sources from top vineyards besides the Champoux, — the Galitzine, MachOne (formerly Lake Wallula), Palengat and Wallula Vineyards. More recently, Paul Golitzin has been adding some MachOne Vineyard fruit to his Galitzine Vineyard bottling. ‘That fruit [MachOne] seems to round things out nicely,’ Paul said. It was a great honor to revisit vintages 2004-2010 for my Decanter Magazine piece in March. As I slowly moved from wine to wine, the one thing struck me about the wines that were obviously very rich and dense was their elegance and pillowy texture. The new wines that I tasted come from the 2017 vintage, one that saw consistently warm temperatures in the summer, with few major heat spikes. Summer temperatures were consistently warm but the fall cooled considerably which led to consistent ripening. 

This is now my second soiree into the 2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ and ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ bottlings which are steadily becoming more and more divergent from each other. Both wines are amongst the best wines in North America that I have tasted over the past year. The 2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 99) has a massive core of dark fruits and a pillowy texture. Obviously rich and decadent, this has a great feeling of elegance and bright acidity that keeps everything in balance. Every bit as good and showing more of a muscular persona with its creosote and tar tones, the 2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 99) is a hedonistic treat to savor even at this juncture. This is massive and intense, truly one of the thrilling wines made in the state that is a Washington Cabernet lovers dream. Buy both of these wines with confidence. Learn more about these incredible wines at https://www.quilcedacreek.com Here are the gorgeous new releases by Quilceda Creek. 

2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- 

It has now been six months since I first visited the scintillating 2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that exudes both elegance and decadence. The wine spent 20 months in 100% new French oak and was sourced from the Champoux, MachOne, Palengat, and Wallula Vineyards. One remarkable thing that I continue to notice about this wine is despite its use of 100% new French oak, the oak influence in the wine is quite minor and is very well-integrated to the fruit and non-fruit flavors. Following a three hour decant, the wine shows high-toned violets with shades of sagebrush, milk chocolate covered Bing cherry, creme de cassis and anise tones that all sing in harmony in the glass. The palate is rich and layered, yet extremely polished, with a pillowy texture. Deep layers of espresso bean, Black Forest Cake, blueberry compote, graphite and sandalwood in this highly complex range of flavors. The length of this wine is truly outstanding, as is the silky texture which makes the wine effortlessly glide across the mid-palate. Generous and approachable at this juncture with a long decant, the 2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon will enjoy an exceedingly long life ahead of it. Try to resist this beautiful wine for at least two more years. Drink 2022-2040- 99

2017 Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon-

The Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon has become quite a different animal than its ‘Columbia Valley’ brother. The more that this vineyard ages, the more divergent this wine becomes in my mind. This 2017 edition is almost entirely sourced from the Galitzine Vineyard (95%) with the remainder sourced from the ‘MachOne’ Vineyard. Following a three hour decant, the wine slowly begins to unveil layers of deep dark fruits with fresh sage, blueberry cordial and creosote tones that meld in the glass. The palate its massive at its core, with a plush, opulent texture. A thrilling backing of acidity lifts this wine that reveals ripe blackberries with mocha, tar, pipe tobacco and suggestions of blueberry pie. While obviously quite hedonistic, the wine has a fantastic sense of poise and balance, evening out the massive fruit and non-fruit flavors. The exceedingly good finish accentuates this scintillating new wine that has a long life ahead of it. This is Red Mountain at its finest. Drink 2022-2040- 99

Instagram Live

Instagram Live This Week

Friends, we share our honored guests for Instagram Live this week, all times Pacific. Don’t miss out, as Dunham Cellars GM John Blair joins us at 4pm Thursday, followed by the talented Chris Peterson of Avennia at 5pm. Friday we have one of the jewels of the Willamette Valley, Panther Creek’s superstar winemaker Tony Rynders at 4pm followed by Tertulia Cellars and their maestro Ryan Raber at 5pm. Don’t miss all of the action here on Washington Wine Blog this week 🍷

Hamilton Russell Oregon

It isn’t every day that a South African winery makes wines from North America. Today I have the pleasure of sharing a really unique project by famed South African producer Hamilton Russell, as they now have a new line of wlnes, ‘Hamilton Russell Oregon.’ Anthony and Olive Hamilton Russell consistently craft some of the best wines in South Africa’s Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. They are now producing two Oregon Wines: the 2018 Bramble Hill Pinot Noir and the 2018 Zena Crown Pinot Noir. These wines are cut from a similar vein as his Hemel-en-Aarde Pinots, as they will be similarly age worthy and also show a great combination of tension and terroir.

Hamilton Russell spans more than 40 vintages. One of the iconic figures in South African wines, Anthony Hamilton Russell crafts wines from over 400 acre estate which focuses on terroir-driven Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines. For years Anthony was drawn to the wines of the Willamette Valley and he has now been able to source from two great vineyards that are quite diverse. Both wines are downright awesome. The 2018 Hamilton Russell Oregon ‘Bramble Hill’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) shows a beautiful red fruit profile that the region is known for, as well as earthy undertones. Even better is the 2018 Hamilton Russell Oregon ‘Zena Crown’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which is sourced from one of the great vineyards in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, as the wine has glorious tension and marvelous texture. Learn more about these fantastic wines at http://www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Hamilton Russell Oregon. 

2018 Hamilton Russell Oregon ‘Bramble Hill’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘Bramble Hill’ Pinot Noir is sourced from the Ribbon Ridge AVA in the Willamette Valley. The wine is rich on the mid-palate with chewy tannins that line a deep core of red fruits and peat moss tones. This has a wonderful sense of elegance, freshness and length with a bright core of acidity that races through the palate. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2018 Hamilton Russell Oregon ‘Zena Crown’ Pinot Noir- One of the great sites for Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley, the ‘Zena Crown Vineyard’ is a dramatic setting in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. The nose is seriously good as a light dusting of white pepper combines with shades of black truffle and peat moss that all take shape in the glass. The palate is beautifully textured with a good combination of ripeness, viscosity and tension. Downright juicy red fruits dance with citrus rind and peat moss tones on the palate. Gorgeous to savor right now, the 2018 ‘Zena Crown’ Pinot Noir will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 93

Brick House

As we slowly bid adieu to another great Oregon Wine Month we bring you the beautiful wines of Brick House, one of the great producers of Oregon Pinot Noir. A native Oregonian, Doug Tunnell was raised in West Linn, Oregon and traveled around Europe, working as a correspondent for CBS News. After some time he decided to settle back in Oregon, feeling that the Ribbon Ridge AVA was the perfect spot for both Pinot Noir and Gamay. Doug purchased the Brick House Vineyard in 1990,  and then planted Pinot Noir, followed by Gamay. Doug consistently crafts some of the best Oregon Pinot Noir and Gamay, helping the consumer with relatively low prices. 

He has created a gorgeous new Chardonnay, his 2017 Brick House ‘Cascadia’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which has massive verve and tension, as this is a highly Burgundian rendition. I absolutely loved the 2018 Brick House ‘Due East’ Gamay (WWB, 93) which is one of the best new world bottling of Gamay that you will find. Even better was the scintillating 2017 Brick House ‘Evelyn’s’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94), a brilliant tribute to Doug’s mother which has marvelous texture and really good range. Learn more about these completely delicious, age-worthy wines at https://brickhousewines.com Here are the downright awesome new release wines by Brick House. 

2017 Brick House ‘Cascadia’ Chardonnay- Sourced from old vine Ribbon Ridge AVA plantings of Chardonnay, the 2017 ‘Cascadia’ Chardonnay opens with layers of vanilla cream and shades of apricot and Pazzaz apple that all mingle in the glass. The palate is lively, with a great degree of minerality. Layers of nutmeg infused Challah bread and Pink Lady apple deftly combine with whipping cream and earthy undertones of the wine. Highly novel and Burgundian, the beautiful 2017 ‘Cascadia’ Chardonnay will enjoy at least another decade of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Brick House ‘Due East’ Gamay- This shows off spicy aromas that mingle with ripe red cherry and cran-pomrgrnate tones on this exotic nose. The palate has tons of freshness and gobs of mineralitty, as your mouth literally waters throughout this drinking experience. Layers of pretty red fruits and rose water combine with Mandarin orange rind and peat moss tones. This has a wonderful sense of elegance, with really good length. Truly one of a kind, the 2018 ‘Due East’ Gamay will enjoy many years ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2017 Brick House ‘Select’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Select’ Pinot Noir is another stunning new wine by the talented Doug Tunnell. Priced right at just north of thirty dollars, this delivers plenty of appeal with its pretty red fruits, bright acidity and great sense of texture. Juicy and forward, yet showing a nice err of elegance, this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Brick House ‘Cuvee de Tonnelier’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Cuvee de Tonnelier’ is a Pommard clone Pinot Noir that pays tribute to legacy of the winemaker’s father whose family were “tonneliers” or coopers in 17th century France. While not quite as complex as the other Pinot Noir wines, the gratifying mouthfeel and gorgeous sense of texture really impresses, as bright Bing cherry, red raspberry puree, peat moss and orange rind tones really impress. Marvelous now, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2017 Brick House ‘Les Dijonnais’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Les Dijonnais’ is another compelling Ribbon Ridge AVA bottling by the talented Doug Tunnell. A barrel selection wine from the warmest part of the vineyard, the 2017 ‘Les Dijonnais’ shows a dusting of white pepper and forest floor that combine with sage and peat moss tones alongside pomegranate seed on this expressive bouquet. The palate has good freshness a silky texture as a light layer of salinity mingles with the core of guava and red cherry preserves. Complex and downright delicious to enjoy in its youth, the 2018 ‘Les Dijonnais’ Pinot Noir will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 93

2017 Brick House ‘Evelyn’s’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Evelyn’s’ Pinot Noir is a gorgeous new wine that utilizes an equal percentage of Dijon and Pommard clones. Aged for sixteen months in slightly more new French oak than the other bottlings, this great wine, named after the winemaker’s mother, shows peat moss and damp earth aromas that meld with shades of kumquat zest and red cherry candy. The palate is plush, showing a great sense of texture and gobs of mouth-watering acidity that creates immediate appeal. The length of the wine is really gratifying, as is the sense of balance here, as all of the moving pieces work in harmony. Gorgeous to savor in its youth, the 2017 Brick House ‘Evelyn’s’ Pinot Noir will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 94

The Walls

‘This is quite the ‘retirement’’ Mike said, as I queried him about starting a winery. Two days ago on Instagram Live I sat down with The Walls founder Mike Martin to discuss how he built his winery brand — serious wines based on very cartoonish labels. ‘We actually hired eight different cartoonists to do the label,’ Mike said. He certainly has done his research, as The Walls has become a very popular Washington brand in a very short amount of time. Mike is a former Microsoft executive that has found a new home in Walla Walla. In addition to his winery, he owns one of the best local restaurants, Passatempo Taverna.

Last summer I had the chance to visit the new winery, in downtown Walla Walla. It is an awesome, modern facility that produces some really good wines. Mike has been in the news lately, as he made a major purchase in January 2020 acquiring the Rockgarden Estate vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA. Back last summer he has hired superstar winemaker Todd Alexander as winemaking consultant. 

One of the outstanding wines from my 2020 Pacific Northwest Rose Report, the 2019 The Walls ‘Cruel Summer’ Rose (WWB, 91) is downright awesome new Rose that is the best they have produced, with its tension and soft mouthfeel. I absolutely loved the 2017 The Walls ‘Concrete Mama’ Syrah (WWB, 94) is a gorgeous wine that shows incredible range and great Rocks character. Learn more about these outstanding new wines at https://www.thewallsvineyards.com Here are the great new releases from The Walls. 

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

2017 The Walls ‘Lip Stinger’ White Wine- An intriguing blend of Grenache Blanc, Chardonnay and Roussanne, with smaller portions Picpoul, Marsanne and Clarirette Blanc, this shows off a soft texture with layers of melon and citrus rind flavors, with vanilla cream and Gravenstein apple tones rounding out this downright delicious new wine. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2017 The Walls ‘McAndrew’ Chardonnay- The ‘MacAndrew’ Chardonnay is named after William McAndrew who first planted gapes on Underwood Mountain in 1972. The freshness and soft texture really delights as layers of lemon cake, nectarine rind, and baking spices come together with a good degree of freshness. Enjoy this beautiful new wine over the next seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2018 The Walls ‘French Creek Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Last year I had the chance to visit this dramatic, wind-swept vineyard that is literally not close to anything, as the French Creek Vineyard is a higher elevation site that is gaining a strong reputation for Chardonnay. The wine shows good opulence with its silky texture and soft mouthfeel. Baked apple and lemon cream flavors collide with cantaloupe and minerals. This finishes very long with lemon cream, minerals and a hint of ripe banana. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2016 The Walls ‘The Insiders’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from the White Salmon Vineyard, the 2016 ‘The Insiders’ Pinot Noir shows shades of smoke and damp earth that mingle with ripe red fruits on the nose. The palate has good elegance with a soft mouthfeel. Mouth-watering acidity and layers of toasty oak combine with the core of red cherry, guava and red raspberry with earthy undertones. Drink 2020-2028- 91

2017 The Walls ‘River Rock Vineyard’ Grenache- The ‘River Rock Vineyard’ is located near the Oregon/Washington border in the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. Light flinty tones combine with bright Bing cherry, rose water and shades of Mandarin orange zest on this beautiful nose. The palate is wonderfully textured with a soft mouthfeel. Layers of ripe red fruits dance with citrus rind, wet stone and suggestions of pink bubblegum on the palate. The long finish lingers. Drink 2020-2027- 92

2017 The Walls ‘The Ramparts’ Red Wine-A blend of Grenache (40%) and Mourvedre (40%) with 15% Counoise and a touch of Viognier (5%), ‘The Ramparts’ has layers of toasty oak that combine with ripe red cherry, smoke, bacon fat and blackberry cobbler, with a light dusting of white pepper. This has really nice complexity and a good vein of tension running through its core. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2017 The Walls ‘Gaspard’ Syrah- Sourced from Red Mountain, the ‘Gaspard’ has a soft mouthfeel and wonderful texture. Rich chocolate and smoky tones combine with the core of dark fruits and sagebrush undertones on the palate. Ripe and generous, showing good weight and acidity, the ‘Gaspard’ Syrah will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2017 The Walls ‘Concrete Mama’ Syrah- The 2017 ‘Concrete Mama’ Syrah is another seriously good release by The Walls and new consulting winemaker Todd Alexander. The wine shows better aromatic and flavor range than the other wines in this new set of releases. Sourced from the ‘River Rock Vineyard’ in the Rocks Disrtrict of Milton-Freewater, the ‘Concrete Mama’ opens with layers of bacon fat, green olive tapenade and a deep core of dark fruits with stony undertones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, showing off its plush mouthfeel and voluptuous texture. Layers of Hoisin sauce and smoked brisket combine with coffee grounds and tar, with stony undertones that all make this remarkable wine truly sing. Highly enjoyable in its youth with its soft texture, this marvelous new release will enjoy another decade in the cellar. Drink 2020-2028- 94

2017 The Walls ‘Mahana’ Syrah- Also sourced from the ‘River Rock Vineyard’ in the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater, the ‘Mahana;’ opens with shades of violets that combine with smoked pork shoulder, wild blackberry and thyme that all take shape in the glass. The palate has really good elegance and weight, with a silky mouthfeel. Layers of dark fruits mingle with light green olive tapenade and a light dusting of salinity with black tea all make their appearance on the palate. Really good in its youth, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next eight plus years. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2017 The Walls ‘Curiositas’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Curiousitas’ is a dense and inky wine, taking the lead with black currants and graphite tones with blackberry cobbler and shades of dark chocolate shavings on this fantastic nose. The palate is soft and shows an err of elegance with layers of dark fruits woven together with mocha, scorched earth and anise flavors. Wonderful to enjoy right now, the 2017 ‘Curiousitas’ Cabernet Sauvignon will be best enjoyed over the next ten to twelve years. Drink 2020-2032- 92

Delmas

One day now removed with my exclusive Instagram Live with Delmas founder Steve Robertson and his daughter, Brooke Robertson, I have the pleasure of sharing one of the great wines of the Walla Walla Rocks District. ‘We see this wine very much in line with 2016 and 2017. This wine with a little bottle age based on the primary fermentation we think that this will be our most complex wine yet,’ said Steve. As I spent several hours tasting this wine, I was struck by the massive complexity of the wine and the nuanced layers and flavor/aromatic range. 

Delmas was born by the watchful eyes of Mary and Steve Robertson who founded this winery more than a decade ago. Steve has a background in real estate development and business management and was previously in Napa before planting vines in his very special ‘SJR Vineyard’, in the Walla Walla Rocks District. If you have never been to this vineyard, it is a must visit for oenophiles and lovers of Walla Walla Syrah. The vineyard is planted to mainly Syrah but also has a small portion of Viognier and Grenache planted as well. Steve hit a home run when he hired Billo Naravane, MW, to serve as his winemaker. More recently I have been told that Brooke Robertson has been helping with some of the winemaking. 

Delmas first crafted their Syrah with the cool 2010 vintage which I had the pleasure to taste as part of a special vertical tasting several years back. I have been massively impressed with this project, to say the least. The 2017 Delmas Syrah landed on my 2019 Washington Wine Blog Top 100 at the #6 position. The new wine coming from the 2018 vintage is totally stunning. The 2018 Delmas Syrah (WWB, 96) has amazing range and texture. It is sensational already in this stage in its development and I can imagine it benefiting from some short-term cellaring, picking up more earthy, truffle tones as it ages. Simply put, this wine is a must purchase for any serious collector of Walla Walla Rocks District Syrah. Learn more about these very special wines at https://delmaswines.com Here is my review of the 2018 Delmas Syrah (fall 2020 release).

2018 Delmas Syrah- The 2018 Delmas Syrah is the highly anticipated release that follows the 2017 edition which was one of the top wines that I tasted last year in North America. The wine is a blend of 91.3% Syrah with the remainder Viognier. They added a touch more Viognier this year which they have noted has increased in quality. The wine was aged in 50% new oak (half 500L puncheons) prior to bottling. Tasted over several hours, this Syrah impresses with shades of bulls blood and seaweed that deftly combine with the black truffle and wild blackberry compote tones aromatically. The palate is silky smooth, giving this an err of opulence. Layers of pretty red fruits greet you, with shades of rose water, Umami, bulls blood, white truffle shaving and Mandarin orange rind and gobs of mouth-watering acidity on the palate. This is a big wine but it shows great elegance and length. While sensational to savor in its youth, the 2018 Delmas Syrah has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2029- 96

Bells Up

As we continue our journey through Oregon Wine Month we bring you one of the awesome boutique wineries in the state. Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Bells Up is a relatively new winery that has been making some really cool wines that fly under the radar. Located in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, Bells Up was founded by Sara and Dave Specter in 2013. Dave spent his career as a lawyer and eventually caught the wine bug after learning more about winemaking, as helped make wine at Henke Winery while they both lived in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dave turned this hobby into an obsession, winning two separate national amateur winemaking competitions with two different varietals. At that point they both knew they should pursue their dreams and relocate to Newberg, Oregon to start Bells Up.

These are lighter style Pinot Noirs with excellent finesse and elegance. Dave makes the only Seyval Blanc that I have seen in this region and he has crafted a gorgeous version, the 2019 Bells Up ‘Helios’ Seyval Blanc (WWB, 91) which is novel, complex and is massively somm-friendly as this would pair with a great variety of shellfish. I really enjoyed their 2017 Bells Up ‘Villanelle’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 91)  which is elegant and has great acidity and range, with nice salty tones. Learn more about this great boutique winery at https://bellsupwinery.com Here are the great new wines by Bells Up. 

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 2020-2025- 90

2019 Bells Up ‘Helios’ Seyval Blanc- A highly obscure varietal, Bells Up owners have planted Seyval Blanc at their estate vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. The grassy tones on the nose make you think new world Sauvignon Blanc, as unripe pear and melon tones round out the aromatics. The palate is gratifying with its soft texture and great astringency. Layers of sour apple and unripe cantaloupe collide with minerals and wet stone on the palate. Lithe and refreshing, enjoy this excellent new wine in the short-term. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 Bells Up ‘Rhapsody’ Pinot Blanc- Another less typically seen varietal that made its fame in Alsace, the 2019 ‘Rhapsody’ Pinot Blanc shows lovely nutty and damp earth tones that collide with shades of kumquat and green papaya on this evocative nose. Soft and round once on the attack, the wine yields some juicy acidity that connects with a light dusting of salinity and the Gravenstein apple, kiwi and melon flavors. Enjoy this in its youth while the good freshness remains intact. Drink 2020-2024- 89

2017 Bells Up ‘Titan’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 ‘Titan’ Pinot Noir was sourced from a host of Willamette Valley vineyards. Pretty guava and candied red cherry fill the nose alongside some lighter peat moss undertones. The palate is delicate and nicely textured with layers of light red fruits with kumquat zest and rose water that connect with mineral and earthy accents. Drink 2020-2027- 90

2017 Bells Up ‘Villanelle’ Pinot Noir- The Bells Up ‘Villanelle’ is sourced from the Tonneiler Vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. The nose shows good brightness with orange zest and red cherry candy that combine with shades of damp earth that all take shape in the glass. The palate has good freshness with a silky mouthfeel. Elegant and linear, this shows red currants and guava puree flavors alongside shades of black tea and forest floor. The salty, savory aspects of this wine are seriously good, producing mouth-watering acidity that adds to the enjoyment. Drink 2020-2030- 91

2017 Bells Up ‘Candide’ Pinot Noir- The 2017 Bells Up ‘Candide’ Pinot Noir was sourced from the Nemarniki Vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains AVA and is a really good release by the talented former lawyer, Dave Specter. Fresh, vibrant and full of bright acidity, while this might be a bit lean for some, the length and elegance of the wine, with its pretty red fruits and saline driven terroir, cannot be denied. High-toned and fantastic to enjoy in its youth, I can see this cellaring well over the next decade — but why wait? Drink 2020-2028- 91

St. Innocent

We bring you one of the top estates in Oregon as part of Oregon Wine Month. Consistently some of the great values in Oregon wines for the price, St. Innocent is a famed Oregon estate founded by Oregon Wine Pioneer, Mark Vlossak. Mark has a longstanding history in the Oregon wine industry as the first single vineyard Pinot Noir made by Mark dates back to 1989 from the O’Connor vineyard. In 2006 Mark set up his winery at that same site of his first single vineyard wine, which is now named the Zenith Vineyard. Mark’s Pinots typically have a wonderful combination of elegance and richness. I’ve been sampling these wines for more than ten years and have found them to be one of the most consistent producers of Pinot Noir in Oregon. His last years releases were exceptional and this set of wines were even better. Mark also makes some of the best Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc in Oregon. 

Last year his Pinot Gris made its way onto my 2019 Washington Wine Blog Top 100 and his new 2016 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Blanc (WWB, 93) has great freshness, weight and minerality. I was really impressed with his 2016 Pinot Noir releases which were exceptional across the board. Look to his 2016 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 93) which shows wonderful blood orange and earthy accents. Even better was his 2016 St. Innocent ‘Justice Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which is silky and elegant with marvelous tension. One thing is clear — Mark Vlossak continues to be on top of his game. Learn more about these awesome wines at https://stinnocentwine.com Here are the great new releases by St. Innocent. 

2016 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Blanc- The 2016 ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Blanc by St. Innocent is arguably the best of its kind in North America. The wine was aged on the lees for eight months before bottling in June 2017. The freshness and wonderful texture entices as beeswax and nutmeg infused Challah bread flavors mingle with minerals, honeydew melon and a lovely sense of viscosity. Gorgeous now to enjoy, I can see this cellaring well over the next seven years. This is not only a downright steal at a mere twenty two dollars and is every bit stunning by superstar winemaker and Oregon wine pioneer, Mark Vlossak. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2017 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Chardonnay- This incredible new wine sourced from the famed ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ shows a ripe bouquet of bananas foster and vanilla cream that collide with nutty and earthy undertones. The palate has a silky mouthfeel that effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. The seamless quality of the wine truly entices as bright orchard fruits are woven together with vanilla cream and nutmeg infused sourdough bread flavors. Wonderful to enjoy in its youth, this great new Oregon Chardonnay will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2016 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Located just short of the Coast Range and ten miles from Salem, Oregon, the ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard is set at roughly 500 feet elevation. This Pinot Noir has sourced two vineyard blocks, planted in 2004 and 2008. High-toned red fruits dance with shades of blood orange, peat moss and silty tones that all take shape in the glass. Soft and generous, with a plush mouthfeel, this shows high-toned red fruits that dance with suggestions of orange rind and damp earth accents. The silky texture truly entices, as this round and generous new Pinot Noir will show well for a decade or more to come. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2016 St. Innocent ‘Temperance Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2016 ‘Temperance Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir opens with ripe red cherry aromatics woven together with citrus rind and peat moss and volcanic earth undertones on this complex, earthy nose. The palate has great freshness and verve, with medium-bodied black cherry cordial with damp earth, orange zest and pomegranate seed flavors that all sing in unison. Fantastic to enjoy in its youth, this beautiful new Pinot Noir will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2016 St. Innocent ‘Zenith Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Mark Vlossak planted the ‘Zenith Vineyard’ which is located eight miles from Salem, Oregon and utilizes four different Pinot Noir clones. The wine was aged in French oak barrels for sixteen months prior to bottling in February 2018. Translucent in the glass, the ‘Zenith Vineyard’ Pinot Noir takes the lead with its lovely dusting of white pepper and volcanic soil as bright and highly perfumed red fruits dance with minerals, blood orange and peat moss tones. The length and seamless quality of the wine is simply magical. While enticing to enjoy right now, the 2016 ‘Zenith Vineyard’ Pinot Noir will cellar well for another ten to fifteen years — or more. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2016 St. Innocent ‘Shea Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, the ‘Shea Vineyard’ is one of the famed sites for Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley. The wine was aged for sixteen months in French oak (26%) prior to bottling in February 2018. Red rose petals and red cherry compote brilliantly combine with orange zest and damp earth aromatics all take shape in the glass. The palate is silky smooth, showing off a lovely core of ripe red fruits with wild mushroom and damp earth tones on the palate. Round and generous, with great length, this fantastic wine will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2016 St. Innocent ‘Justice VIneyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Justice VIneyard’ was first planted in 2001 and has a large influence from the Van Duzer corridor. Highly perfumed once in the glass, shades of rose water and tarragon combine with the lovely core of bright red fruits on this gorgeous nose. The palate is vibrant showing amazing texture and a wonderfully plush texture and bright sense of minerality. A complete wine, this is a scintillating bottling that is thrilling to enjoy in its youth and will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 94

2016 St. Innocent ‘Momtazi Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Momtazi Vineyard’ is a famed vineyard located seven miles west of McMinnville, Oregon. This biodynamic vineyard has a unique combination of marine sedimentary soils and volcanic soils. The dusting of volcanic earth really entices on the nose, brilliantly combining with dark kirsch and damp earth tones that all mingle in the glass. The palate is lithe, showing a wonderful sense of minerality. The length and richness of the red fruit flavors all come together brilliantly, as this outstanding new wine will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Instagram Live This Week

Friends,

Please join me for our superstar cast of characters for our Instagram Live series this week, all times Pacific. Starting at 3PM tomorrow we share one of the jewels of the Rocks District AVA @delmas__sjrvineyard followed by @betzwine famed winemaker Louis Skinner at 4PM who crafts a brilliant Rocks AVA wine and one of the top Rose wines in the Pacific Northwest. At 5PM join me with @thewallsvineyards founder Mike Martin as we taste through his acclaimed new releases.

Thursday at 4&5PM will surely entice with back to back Walla Walla talents of Trey Busch of @sofhcellars who joins us from the Blue Mountain Vineyard, then his friend @deviumwines winemaker Keith Johnson talks about his really cool wines from the French Creek Vineyard and @weathereye_vineyard

Finally at 7PM journey with us down under 🇦🇺 as we check in with the latest from the Blue Eyed Boy himself, @mollydookerwine Luke Marquis.

Friday at 5PM we welcome another top WA wine talent Kerry Shiels of @cotebonneville fame, as we run through her awesome new lineup, followed by @whiteroseestate winemaker Tresider Burns at 6PM, who has crafted some gorgeous wines from the 2017 vintage in Oregon. It all begins tomorrow at 3PM, hope to see you then 🍷🔥