Avennia

I am constantly impressed with the upper echelon of Washington wine. One of the consistently great houses in Washington, Avennia has been producing great wines for now nearly a decade. A partnership between former Microsoft executive Marty Taucher and superstar winemaker Chris Peterson, Avennia focuses on high quality Rhone and Bordeaux style wines. One of the state’s great winemakers, Chris Peterson was formerly DeLille Cellars winemaker for many years prior to starting Avennia. I had the great chance to sit down with him for Instagram Live this summer. Articulate and highly intelligent, Chris has a very polished style to his winemaking that combines new world richness with old world poise and aging potential.

I absolutely adored his 2018 Avennia ‘Arnaut’ Syrah (WWB, 95) which is deeply concentrated and smoky with seriously good texture and range. This beautifully shows off this cooler site in the Yakima Valley. Just as good is the stunning new 2019 Avennia ‘Justine’ Red Wine (WWB, 95) which is probably for my palate the best edition of this wine. The ’18 ‘Justine’ is rich and layered but also very pretty, with incredible purity of fruit. These wines are not to be missed for any serious collector of Washington red wine. Learn more about these special wines at avennia.com Here are my reviews of the two new Avennia wines. 

2018 Avennia ‘Justine’ Red Wine-The 2018 Avennia ‘Justine’ Red Wine is a thrilling blend of 61% Grenache, 23% Mourvèdre, and 16% Syrah that underwent 15% whole cluster fermentation. Aged for sixteen months in 80% neutral oak and the remainder concrete, this shows pretty pomegranate seed and garrigue tones that mingle with bulls blood and wild strawberry on this complex bouquet. The palate is soft, elegant and highly gratifying with its pillowy mouthfeel. Gorgeous range follows with orange zest, red cherry candy and guava tones that mingle with damp earth and shades of smoked pork shoulder on the palate. This is truly one of the great Southern Rhone style wines you will find in Washington. Drink 2020-2030- 95

2018 Avennia ‘Arnaut Boushey Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2018 ‘Arnaut Boushey Vineyard’ Syrah is a thrilling new wine by superstar winemaker Chris Peterson. Showing off its deep core, the wine shows smoked brisket and violet aromatics that mingle with blackberry compote and creosote on this complex bouquet. The palate is deep, round and generous, taking on a silky mouthfeel. The wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate delivering intense Black Forest cake flavors woven together with damp earth, smoked BBQ beef ribs, and Kalamata olive, giving this a savory edge. With great weight and length, this beautiful wine has another decade of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

Opus One

One of the storied California wineries, Opus One is a monumental partnership between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild founded in 1979. At the time Opus One was the first ultra-premium California wine to be sold in France and Internationally.  Opus One produces only one wine and a second wine (Overture) – both of which are typically a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Opus One sources from four estate vineyards. This includes two sites comprising roughly 100 acres within the famed ‘To Kalon Vineyard’ and their ‘Ballestra’ and ‘River’ parcels comprising 70 acres which envelop the winery.  Head winemaker Michael Silacci is one of California’s great winemakers. I was fortunate enough to sit down with him earlier this summer and talk about his illustrious career, as well as taste two vintages of Opus One.

Blends in his Opus One can vary year to year but his new vintage combines Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), Petit Verdot (9%), Cabernet Franc (5%), Merlot (5%) and Malbec (1%). His new 2017 Opus One Red Wine (WWB, 96) is simply magical with its beautiful texture that improves after a few hours of air. Highly poised and marvelous at this stage, this beautiful wine has decades to go. Learn more about Opus One at http://www.opusonewinery.com/ Here are my notes of the gorgeous new release by Opus One.

2017 Opus One Red Wine- The 2017 Opus One is a seamless, impeccable effort from this somewhat challenging vintage in the Napa Valley. A gorgeous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), Petit Verdot (9%), Cabernet Franc (5%), Merlot (5%) and Malbec (1%), the wine shows rich creme de cassis and mocha tones, woven together with violets and sweet pipe tobacco tones on this compelling bouquet. Once on the attack fine grained tannins frame this densely packed wine that seamlessly glides across the mid-palate. Gorgeous layers of creme de cassis and Turkish coffee combine with minerals, menthol and lighter garrigue undertones. Simply magical after a one hour decant, the highly elegant and gratifying 2017 Opus One will have decades of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2040- 96

Long Shadows

Today we share one of the stars of Washington wine. I have long admired these wines and the brilliant vision of Allen Shoup, former CEO of Chateau Ste. Michelle. Long Shadows has made their name by crafting outstanding red wines with a superstar cast of winemaking talent that spans the globe. I have tasted at Long Shadows for well over a decade and year in, year out, they are one of the most consistently good producers of Washington red wine. Their wines age marvelously as well. Over the past year I have had a chance to try a few absolutely epic bottles of their ‘Pedestal’ Merlot, made by famed enologist Michel Rolland. Their 2012 bottling of ‘Pedestal’ was tried recently which is absolutely singing. 

I recently had the chance to review the new Long Shadows releases and was once again blown away with their consistency, showing a beginning, middle and an end. The 2017 Long Shadows ‘Sequel’ Syrah (WWB, 95) is dense, chewy and downright delicious with its texture and weight. Even better was the incredible 2016 Long Shadows ‘Pedestal’ Red Wine (WWB, 96) which rivals any Washington Merlot out there. This dense wine has a massive cellaring potential but is pillowy and nearly impossible to resist right now. Learn more about this amazing winery at http://www.longshadows.com/ Here are the amazing new release wines from Long Shadows.

2018 Long Shadows ‘Poet’s Leap’ Riesling-Long Shadows has long been producing one of the best Rieslings made in the Pacific Northwest. This new edition from the warm 2018 vintage has an exceedingly small trace of residual sugar (1.20g/ML). The freshness imparted is downright awesome, as is silky texture. Layers of green apple and wet stone collide with the great degree of mouth-watering acidity. Just an infant at this stage, the 2018 ‘Poet’s Leap’ Riesling will have another decade of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2027- 93

2017 Long Shadows ‘Sequel’ Syrah- One of the famed Syrah wines of Washington crafted by famed Aussie winemaker, John Duval, the 2017 ‘Sequel’ is another gorgeous bottling by Long Shadows. John Duval first made this wine in 2003 and the wine has been a massive success ever since. The Syrah was sourced from a warm vintage that saw few major heat spikes and had cooler conditions at harvest. Aged for 18 months in all French oak barrels (60% new) the wine arrives with a massively inky, glass-staining core. Layers of black fruits, dark chocolate covered espresso bean, smoked brisket aromatics and a dusting of white pepper all mingle in the glass. The plush texture offers an err of decadence. Not only showing great weight, the wine has a great acid backbone that collides with the rich core of dark fruits, chocolate cake, sagebrush and smoky tones. If offered a glass of this balanced, yet hedonistic dense wine, how could you resist? Drink 2020-2030- 95

2016 Long Shadows ‘Pedestal’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Pedestal’ is a monumental effort from this famed Walla Walla house. A blend of 75% Merlot with 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, this was aged in 85% new French oak barrels for 22 months before bottling. The nose is hedonistic and gratifying with layers of toasty oak that wrap around the core of kirsch cordial, chocolate covered espresso bean and tobacco leaf tones that all meld in the glass. The mouthfeel is both pillowy and voluptuous as this effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Chocolate covered cherries, pipe tobacco and Turkish coffee flavors mingle with garrigue and creosote undertones on this complex palate. The generous length adds to the enjoyment. While enchanting to savor in its youth, the 2016 Long Shadows ‘Pedestal’ has another two decades of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2038- 96

2016 Long Shadows ‘Chester Kidder’ Red Wine- The 2016 ‘Chester Kidder’ is a downright awesome wine made by superstar winemaker Gilles Nicault. A blend of 58% Cabernet with Sauvignon 30% Syrah and 12% Petit Verdot, the herbal undertones really impress here, as green bell pepper, sagebrush and dark chocolate shavings emerge aromatically alongside the core of rich dark fruits. The palate is well-balanced and rich with its soft mouthfeel. Green bell pepper, dried herbs, blackberry cordial and coffee grounds all sing in unison on the palate. With great length and persistence, this outstanding wine will provide drinking enjoyment for another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2017 Long Shadows ‘Pirouette’ Red Wine- The 2017 Long Shadows ‘Pirouette’ is a gorgeous new bottling by famed winemaking consultant Philippe Melka. A complex blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot with smaller portions Malbec and Petit Verdot, the wine opens with heady dark currants woven together with toasty oak, espresso bean and shades of green bell pepper and blueberry compote that contribute to the hedonistic bouquet. The palate is rich and decadent, with a decadent mouthfeel. Beautifully textured, this displays layers of rich chocolate covered dark cherries that dance with minerals, scorched earth, sagebrush and black licorice candy. This finishes exceedingly long. Gratifying to savor in its youth, the 2017 Long Shadows ‘Pirouette’ has a long way to go. Drink 2020-2040- 95

Woodward Canyon

Today we share one of Washington’s historic wineries that continues to fire on all cylinders. It is hard to imagine how different Walla Walla was back in 1981 when Rick and Darcey Small decided to found Woodward Canyon. I have fond memories back as a Whitman College senior tasting at Woodward Canyon in 2002. The quality of these wines have been electric and a pillar of consistency. I’ve had the great opportunity to try every edition of their ‘Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon and have been so impressed with how that wine ages. It is hard to believe that they are now on their 27th edition of this wine. The 2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 93) is delicious and shows a generous mouthfeel and bright acidity. Woodward Canyon have developed a nationwide reputation for great Chardonnay. I loved both new releases but the 2019 Woodward Canyon ‘Washington’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) is particularly a great value with its bright acidity and great weight.  I was absolutely enamored by the 2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Old Vines Washington’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 95) which is hedonistic and gratifying but has a great core of acidity and freshness. This beautiful wine has decades of life ahead of it. Learn more about this historic Washington winery at https://www.woodwardcanyon.com/ Here are the gorgeous new release wines by Woodward Canyon.

2019 Woodward Canyon ‘Washington’ Chardonnay- Sourced from a host of great sites spanning the state, the 2019 ‘Washington’ Chardonnay shows ripe pear and vanilla cream tones with shades of orange blossom on this beautiful bouquet. The palate is plush and filled with bright, mouth-watering acidity. Layers of buttercream and Meyer lemon zest collide with minerals and hints of baking spice infused sourdough bread. Gorgeous in its youth, the weight and acidity suggests some nice cellaring potential. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2019 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- Sourced from north-facing vines planted in the North Block at the Estate Vineyard, this 100% Wente clone is a stunning new Walla Walla Valley Chardonnay. Suggestions of macadamia nut and vanilla cream combine with rich Challah bread on this beautiful nose. The palate shows a great combination of weight and verve, as lemon zest and shades of Gravenstein apple connect with minerals and damp earth undertones of the wine. Like the 2019 ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay, this has some great aging potential but is irresistible in its bright youth. Drink 2020-2028- 93

2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate’ Merlot- Sourced from both an older (23 year old) and newer block, the Merlot shows black cherry and black currants that mingle with Asian spices and pipe tobacco on the nose. The palate is soft, round and generous with a silky mouthfeel. Layers of kirsch cordial and allspice connect with chocolate and black plum on the palate. Downright delicious even at this juncture, this beautiful wine has at least another decade of aging to go. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Rich, lithe and polished, the 2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a downright awesome bottling by this famed Walla Walla Valley producer. Once on the nose this takes on wonderful garrigue tones, woven together with exotic spices, loamy terroir and rich dark currants that all sing in unison. The palate is soft and seamless, showing great depth, concentration and poise. Rich creme de cassis and anise tones combine with shades of sandalwood and Turkish coffee, giving this an exotic appeal. Absolutely gorgeous to savor in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well for another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon- 2018 marks the 27th edition of this famed Washington wine and the new edition really impresses. Right away the rich creme de cassis aromatics entice, with layers of dark chocolate shavings, espresso bean and shades of dried sage all take shape in the glass. Generous dark fruits connect well with menthol, anise, cassis and shades of red bell pepper and tar on this complex palate. The balance here is really good, as they 2018 ‘Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon will enjoy another fifteen years ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Woodward Canyon ‘Old Vines Washington State’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2018 ‘Old Vines’ by Woodward Canyon is a simply stunning bottling by famed winemaker Kevin Mott. Sourced from their estate vineyard as well as Sagemoor and Champoux Vineyards, this opens with a beautiful bouquet of violets and mocha tones that combine with shades of creme de cassis, creosote, and cigar ash with lighter graphite and red bell pepper undertones that all march in unison. The palate is deep and concentrated, yet elegant and light on its feet. A light dusting of salinity adds to the drinking enjoyment as shades of chocolate covered espresso bean and Black Forest Cake collide with minerals, sagebrush and scorched undertones. Full-bodied with fine grained tannins that line this outstanding production, the 2018 ‘Old Vines’ will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2040- 95

Betz Family Winery

One of the great Washington wineries, Betz Family Winery was founded under Washington wine legend, Bob Betz, Currently at the helm is the Uber-talented Louis Skinner whom I interviewed last year.  We were not able to get together in person this year but did enjoy a wonderful chat on Instagram Live. Like many winemakers, Louis had a previous career prior to catching the wine bug which in his case was highly contagious. Louis literally read everything he could on wine and got a job working at a wine shop which allowed him to taste wines of the world constantly.

Having some seriously good pedigree, Louis has trained under legendary winemakers, Chris Upchurch and Bob Betz, MW, prior to taking over for Betz at his namesake winery. Louis is an unabashed Burgundy lover who has an encyclopedic knowledge of wine. His wines are technically very well-made as each wine tells a story with a beginning, middle and end. I am very excited about the wines he continues to produce from their estate ‘Old Stones Vineyard,’ located adjacent to the River Rock Vineyard in Milton-Freewater. 

The wine from this vineyard, the 2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Domaine de Pierres’ Syrah (WWB, 95) which has a great core of fruit and nice weight but is wonderfully complex and stony. This is a wine for any serious collector of The Rocks District wines. Just as good was the 2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Heart of The Hill Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 95) which is inky, dark and highly gratifying yet shows a vibrant sense of minerality. Learn more about these beautiful wines at https://www.betzfamilywinery.com Here are the great new wines by Betz Family Winery.

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

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Besoleil’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘Besoleil’ is a downright sexy blend of mostly Grenache (55%) with smaller portions Mourvedre, Counoise and a small dusting of Syrah all sourced from the Yakima Valley AVA. High toned blood orange zest and red cherry candy with guava puree combine with damp earth undertones on this evocative nose. The palate is plush, showing off a wonderful sense of mouthfeel. Layers of pretty red fruits dance with rose water, orange rind and damp earthy tones on the palate. The weightless effect mid-palate may be the most impressive aspect at play.  Complex and delicious in its youth, the 2018 ‘Besoleil’ will cellar well for the next ten plus years. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Domaine de Pierres’ Syrah- Farmed from their ‘Ancient Stones Vineyard’ in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA, this whole cluster fermented Syrah was aged for sixteen months in oak barrels before bottling. Right away you smell the wonderfully stony aromatics of the wine, with horse manure, green olive tapenade and white pepper dusted potpourri with bacon fat that take shape in the glass. The palate is soft and plush, with a great sense of elegance and tension. This effortlessly glides across the mid-palate delivering a core of wild blackberry cobbler, charcuterie, green olive and salty, stony terroir. Nothing short of outstanding, kudos to Louis Skinner for crafting this heavyhitter of a wine that is best enjoyed within the next eight to ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 95

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘La Serenne’ Syrah- The 2018 ‘La Serenne’ Syrah is entirely sourced from the Yakima Valley AVA and underwent 100% whole cluster fermentation before being aged in French oak for sixteen months. A core of dark and red fruits meld with shades of baking spices, and dried herbal tones on the nose. The palate has good freshness and balanced with layers of sour red fruits that dance with Mandarin orange zest, cinnamon and cloves, with sagebrush undertones. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘La Cote Rousse’ Syrah- A blend of nearly all Syrah (94%) with the remainder Viognier, this wine was sourced from the famed Ciel du Cheval Vineyard and underwent 50% whole cluster fermentation. The alluring high tones from the Viognier really captivate with pink grapefruit blossom and bright red fruits that meld with menthol and damp earth on the nose. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a great veil of tension. Layers of red and dark fruits are woven together with suggestions of wintergreen, milk chocolate and dusty terroir on the palate. The length and elegance of this wine is seriously good as the 2018 ‘La Cote Rousse’ Syrah will be best enjoyed over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘La Cote Patriarch’ Syrah- The 2018 ‘La Cote Patriarch’ Syrah is a sensational new wine by the talented Lous Skinner. Sourced from the Yakima Valley, right away you are drawn to the deep dark fruit aromatics with smoky and damp earthy tones melding well. The palate is plush, showing an utterly fantastic sense of texture. Deep dark fruits combine with undertones of kumquat, coffee grounds and salted meats. The terroir here is seriously good, as is the exceedingly long finish. Enjoy this stunning new Syrah over the next decade or more. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘The Untold Story’ Red Wine- Entirely sourced from the Columbia Valley, ‘The Untold Story’ is a sensational blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Syrah, with equal parts Merlot and Grenache. Rich, layered and decadent, the wine shows a soft mouthfeel with pretty red fruits that dance with chocolate, sagebrush and milk chocolate tones. Medium-bodied and highly elegant, this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 91

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Clos de Betz’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘Clos de Betz’ is a compelling blend of 55% Merlot with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and the remainder Petit Verdot. The wine shows nice herbal tones on the nose with the core of dark fruits, coffee grounds and chocolate. The texture is soft and seamless with bright acidity that really entices. Layers of dark fruits and Turkish coffee line the palate, with marvelous length and a great feeling of tension. This is seriously good for the price. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Pere du Famille’ Cabernet Sauvignon- I absolutely adore the 2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Pere de Famille’ Cabernet Sauvignon for its weight, elegance and depth. Dark fruits march with anise, creme de cassis and tobacco leaf with tar accents on this gorgeous nose. The palate is rich and marvelously viscous with a great veil of tension that runs through the core of cassis, mocha, tar, graphite and blackberry compote flavors. The seamless texture is really outstanding, as this gorgeous new bottling will enjoy at least another fifteen years ahead of it. Drink 2020-2038- 94

2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Heart of the Hill’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2018 Betz Family Winery ‘Heart of the Hill’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a sensational effort by superstar winemaker Louis Skinner. The evocative nose entices with layers of blueberry compote, espresso bean, graphite and tar that all march in unison in the glass. Soft and silky on the palate, this has a great err of elegance despite showing off its hedonistic bent. Layers of Black Forest Cake, blueberry pie, espresso grounds and creosote all mingle marvelously together on the palate. WIth great weight, length and mouth-watering acidity, this show-stopping Cabernet Sauvignon will enjoy an exceedingly long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2039- 95

Cayuse Vineyards

There is something enchanting about pure terroir. You inhale it, you taste it in the glass and it can be haunting beyond belief. Such is true with the wines by superstar vigneron and Walla Walla wine pioneer Christophe Baron. An amazing story in wine, famed vigneron, Christophe Baron, was the youngest heir of the famed Champagne house, Baron Albert and his ancestors had worked the land at Baron Albert since 1677. Christophe learned about harvests and wine as a young boy and eventually studied viticulture in Burgundy and Champagne. After some travels he was drawn to the Willamette Valley, and was set on making great Pinot Noir. One day he was outside of Walla Walla and saw terroir inspired by the stony galets of Chateauneuf du Pape. We are all thankful that he decided to plant his vineyard back in 1997 and the rest has been history. Christophe has had unparalleled success in the Walla Walla Valley since that time, crafting stony wines that show an incredible combination of tension, range and terroir. 

Each year I sit down with Christophe and vigneronne Elizabeth Bourcier to taste their wines but this year due to the pandemic that wasn’t an option. I deliberately took my time with the wines sent to me and was completely floored with what they have achieved in 2017 — one of the great vintages of Cayuse wines that I have tried across the board. The freshness and tension in the wines is extraordinary. While these may not have the weight of the 2016 wines, there is plenty of stuffing and the ’17s are extremely light on their feet. 

There are many highlights in this incredible new lineup. A dazzling new Rose, the 2018 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Edith’ Rose (WWB, 94) is amongst the best Rose wines in North America that I have sampled in the past year. Make sure this beauty opens up after an hour and you will be treated to nothing short of an extraordinary aromatic and flavor range. One of the great Grenache wines in North America, the  2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine (WWB, 99) flirts with perfection with its insane aromatic and flavor range. Bright and dazzling on the palate, the wine is sumptuous to enjoy now. Just as good was the 2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Bionic Frog’ Syrah (WWB, 99) which shows a seamless, pillowy texture and absolutely gorgeous range. This is one for any serious collector of Cayuse wines.Learn more about these incredible wines at https://cayusevineyards.com Here are the dazzling new wines by Cayuse Vineyards.

2018 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Edith’ Rose- The 2018 ‘Edith’ Rose is a highly refreshing and gratifying new wine that has benefited that is amongst the best in North America. Sourced from the ‘Armada Vineyard’, once on the nose this takes on pretty red rose petals that mingle with cantaloupe and wet stone and smoky tones that all meld in the glass. The palate is wonderfully fresh and vibrant with great acidity and a seamless texture. Layers of Gravenstein apple, watermelon, nectarine and kumquat zest collide with minerals and smoky undertones on this complex palate. As the wine warms up, it becomes even more nuanced and complex. Scintillating in its youth, this stunning new Rose will enjoy another eight plus years of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2028- 94

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine- Primarily Grenache based, the 2017 ‘God Only Knows’ is a spellbinding, one of a kind effort by superstar vigneron Christophe Baron. The nose shows remarkable range from pretty red rose petals to green olive tapenade and charcuterie alongside wet stone and roasted figs that all meld in the glass. The palate shows an incredible verve and tension. Layers of bright guava and orange zest collide with smoky minerals, Umami, peat moss and salted prosciutto ham. The exceedingly long finish lingers. A complete wine, the 2017 ‘God Only Knows’ is absolutely scintillating in its youth and will provide drinking enjoyment for at least another decade to come. Drink 2020-2030- 99

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Cailloux Vineyard’ Syrah- Showing some incredible range, the 2017 ‘Cailloux Vineyard’ Syrah is a stunning wine by vigneron Christophe Baron. Smoky tones combine with Hoisin sauce, Umami, green olive tapenade and wet stone with wild blackberry cordial tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is fresh and vibrant with an incredible veil of tension that creates the lovely mouth-watering acidity. Satsuma orange rind and guava compote combine with salted charcuterie, and bacon fat with dried Provencale herbs and a dusting of white pepper all round out this monumental wine. This is the closest you can get to Hermitage in Washington. Outstanding in its vibrant youth, I can imagine this cellaring well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 97

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘En Cerise Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2017 ‘En Cerise Vineyard’ Syrah is a captivating wine that has beautiful finesse, texture and range even at the three year mark. The wine is seamless, effortlessly gliding across the mid-palate. The Syrah takes on a beautiful purity of fruit alongside the outstanding range on the palate. Layers of green olive tapenade, bacon fat, white pepper and shades of wild mushroom and peat moss combine with the deep core of dark fruits and light veil of salinity that falls upon this complex wine. Viscous, with a soft mouthfeel and a wonderful sense of length, the 2017 ‘En Cerise Vineyard’ Syrah will enjoy another decade or life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2028- 96

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Armada Vineyard’ Syrah- Stony, savory and downright sexy, the 2017 ‘Armada Vineyard’ Syrah is a sensational new release by Cayuse Vineyards. Once on the nose the gorgeous Pink Grapefruit blossom tones artfully combine with Umami, white pepper, green olives and shades of smoked brisket with wet stone tones on this highly intoxicating nose. The palate shows incredible freshness and verve with a great sense of minerality. Layers of wild blackberry and huckleberry combine with Hoisin sauce, green peppercorns, black truffle shavings and shades of peat moss on this gorgeous palate. Complex, with great length, viscosity and tension, the 2017 ‘Armada Vineyard’ Syrah will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 96

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘En Chamberlin Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2017 ‘En Chamberlin Vineyard’ Syrah is a gorgeous effort from this famed estate in the Walla Walla Valley. Once on the nose the gorgeous rose water and Umami tones really entice, combining with wet stone, guava puree and shades of blood orange zest on this complex bouquet. The palate is beautifully textured with a silky mouthfeel. Layers of bright red fruits are woven together with Umami, wet stone, salted parma ham and seaweed tones on this complex palate. The flavor range is absolutely stunning as this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 96

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Wallah Wallah No. 11’ Syrah- A blend crafted from a host of Cayuse Vineyards sites, the ‘Wallah Wallah No. 11’ is a spellbinding new release that has incredible terroir and tension. Once on the nose this takes on bacon fat with dried Provencele herbs and bulls blood with wild blackberry compote and Umami tones that all march on parade. The palate shows great tension and viscosity with a silky mouthfeel. Beautiful layers of bright black fruits meld with blood orange zest, smoked Kielbasa sausage, Kalmata olive tapenade and shades of white truffle shavings. The stony undertones really add to the enjoyment, as does the exceedingly long finish. Drink 2020-2030- 97

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Bionic Frog’ Syrah- The 2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Bionic Frog’ Syrah is a simply magical bottling by superstar vigneron Christophe Baron. The evocative nose takes you constantly back to the glass with glorious roasted duck, bacon fat, white pepper and shades of huckleberry compote with Umami tones that all sing in unison. The palate is seamless and profound, effortlessly gliding throughout the tasing experience. Densely packed kirsch notes collide with minerals, charcuterie, green peppercorns, seaweed and shades of bulls blood and kumquat zest. This rivals the best in Cote Rotie with its glorious range and texture. Utterly seamless and flirting with perfection now at the three year mark, the 2017 ‘Bionic Frog’ is truly one of the great wines of the vintage. Drink 2020-2032- 99

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

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘The Lovers’ Red Wine- The 2017 ‘The Lovers’ is a gorgeous blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder Syrah. The nose shows wonderful smoky tones with wet stone and smoked brisket that are woven together with Asian spices and rose water tones that all mingle in the glass. The palate is fresh and downright vibrant showing a great veil of tension that falls on the core of dark fruits, with coffee grounds, wet stone, Umami and black olive tapenade flavors. This finishes extremely long. Gratifying to enjoy right now, this scintillating new bottling will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 95

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Flying Pig’ Red Wine- Always a one of a kind bottling, the 2017 ‘Flying Pig’ is a gorgeous Right Bank style blend of 50% Cabernet Franc with 39% Merlot and the remainder Cabernet Sauvignon. The Provencale herbal tones really impress on the nose, with roasted dates, seaweed and creosote aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a soft texture. Bright red currants collide with Umami, bacon fat, wild blackberry complete and shades of black licorice with smoky pipe tobacco all brilliantly combine on the palate. I love the finesse here. Long and generous, this has another ten plus years to go. Drink 2020-2030- 95

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Camaspelo’ Red Wine- A proprietary blend of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from t the En Cerise and Cailloux vineyards the 2017 ‘Camaspelo’ shows sage and black pepper tones alongside wet stone that all mingle together. The palate is soft and vibrant with wild blackberries and black cherry flavors with wet stone undertones alongside incredible freshness and verve. The brilliant freshness will make this sing over the next decade. Drink 2020-2028- 94 

2017 Cayuse Vineyards ‘The Widowmaker’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Downright awesome, the 2017 ‘The Widowmaker’ is a sensational new wine by eminent vigneron Christophe Baron. Once on the nose the Hoisin sauce and Asian spices really impress alongside wet stone, Umami, bacon fat and salted Kalamata olive tones. The palate is fresh and vibrant with wonderful tension. Layers of pretty dark fruits collide with minerals, Umami and smoky undertones on the palate. Seamless, with its incredible verve and texture, this beautiful wine has another ten plus years of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2032- 95

The Orcas Project

I am always on the lookout for great new wineries. A relatively new project by sommelier Cole Sisson, The Orcas Project takes the Long Shadows Vintners model of using great Pacific Northwest winemakers to craft unique, terroir-driven bottlings spanning Oregon and Washington. 

Sitting down with Cole at his brilliant and cozy Orcas Island wine shop, Doe Bay Wine Company, he shared some of his wine journey that has now gone full circle. Growing up on Orcas Island, Cole who returned home after fifteen years to realize his dream, with an incredible wine shop and awesome winery project. An advanced sommelier, many years back I recall meeting Cole for the first time during a glorious meal at famed Las Vegas outpost Michael Mina. Cole was a somm at RN74 Seattle before becoming wine director at Michael Mina at the Bellagio Resort in Las Vegas. Cole has even sat for the Master Sommelier Exam. His Orcas Project wines are geared towards acidity and terroir and labels are crafted from local Orcas Island artists. 

I really enjoyed these wines across the board. The 2019 The Orcas Project Rose (WWB, 90) has incredible tension and wonderful texture with layers of sour red fruits and sterling minerality. I am not going to lie that I’m enchanted with the 2019 The Orcas Project Grenache Blanc (WWB, 92) which is one of the best of its kind in the state, crafted by the talented Morgan Lee of Two Vintners fame. Learn more about this fantastic winery project at https://www.theorcasproject.com Here are the great new wines by The Orcas Project.

2017 The Orcas Project ‘Willamette Valley Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2017 The Orcas Project ‘Willamette Valley’ Sparkling Wine is an outstanding wine that shows great astringency and poise. Sourced from the ‘Chalice Vineyard’ is the southern part of the Willamette Valley, this is crafted by winemaker Aaron Lieberman. Bright lemon zest with minerals, damp earth and shades of aged gouda, this has terrific range and a great sense of tension. Layered and vibrant, enjoy this great fresh style of Oregon sparkling wine over the next five to seven years. Drink 2020-2027- 90

2019 The Orcas Project Rose- Made by Aaron Lieberman, this Pinot Noir Rose is sourced from the Chalice Vineyard in the Willamette Valley. Right away you notice the guava and bright Bing cherry on the nose with peat moss undertones that all mingle in the glass. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a great sense of texture. Lemon rind and sour red fruits dance with minerals and suggestions of forest floor on the palate. The length is really good, as is the mouth-watering acidity. Fresh, lively and tart, yet soft on the mouth, this is a great foil for fresh shellfish. Drink 2020-2025- 90

2019 The Orcas Project Albarino- Not typically a varietal grown in Washington, the 2019 The Orcas Project Albarino is sourced from the Dutchmen Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. The texture is immediately rewarding as the layers of gooseberry, starfruit and banana all come together marvelously in the glass, with smoky mineral accents. Exceedingly good to enjoy in its youth, the 2019 The Orcas Project Albarino will provide drinking enjoyment over the next five to seven years. Grab some fresh Kusshi oysters and run with this. Drink 2020-2025- 91

2019 The Orcas Project Grenache Blanc- The 2019 The Orcas Project Grenache Blanc is mainly sourced from the Boushey Vineyard (78%) with a small portion from the Weather Eye Vineyard (19%) and a has dollop of Roussanne added (3%). Straw aromatic tones with honeydew melon and shades of baking spices and damp earth all mingle in the glass. The palate shows great freshness and tension with layers of melon fruits with Gala apple, kiwi and copious minerals, with flinty undertones. The combination of tension, finesse and richness is seriously good. Drink 2020-2025- 92

2017 The Orcas Project ‘Snipes Mountain’ Graciano- Sourced from the esteemed ‘Upland Vineyard’ this Graciano shows wonderfully briny tones on the nose with the core of bright red fruits with citrus rind and bacon fat tones on the nose. The palate is soft, with great length. Layers of ripe figs dance with red cherry preserves and red raspberry cordial, with smoky and herbal undertones. This is seriously good stuff for the price, as the ‘Upland Vineyard’ Graciano will provide drinking enjoyment for at least another eight to ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 91

2016 The Orcas Project ‘Red Willow Vineyard’ Merlot- One of the great sites in the Yakima Valley, the famed ‘Red Willow Vineyard’ grows great Bordeaux varietals as well as Syrah. This Merlot shows light toasty oak tones alongside shades of wild blackberry compote and coffee grounds with light sage undertones on the nose. The palate is silky smooth, showing great balance and a seamless factor mid-palate. Medium-bodied, with light tannins that line the core of dark fruits, tobacco leaf and milk chocolate flavors, this is a gorgeous effort that will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2032- 92

2018 The Orcas Project Syrah- This Yakima Valley bottling smells Syrah immediately with its smoky tones and shades of milk chocolate with creosote and dried sage on the nose. Once on the mouth you are drawn to the elegance of the wine, as the silky smooth texture effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Layers of smoked meats, violets, coffee grounds and blackberry compote with minerals all collide on the palate. The length provides the wonderful ending as this gorgeous wine will cellar well over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2020-2028- 92

Spring Valley

One of the great established Walla Walla wineries, Spring Valley is perched on Walla Walla land that was originally used for farming that dates back to the the 1880s. More than 100 years later, Shari and Dean Derby planted vines on the land and made their first vintage in 1999. The Derbys’ son Devin Corkrum Derby served as winemaker until his passing in 2004. Devin’s assistant and friend Serge Laville took over as winemaker and has been crafting some beautiful wines over the past decade. Originally from the Northern Rhone region in France, Serge has created many impressive vintages of Syrah, Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. These are wines that typically show great weight and texture and the 2016 releases were absolutely outstanding across the board.

Look to the fantastic 2016 Spring Valley ‘Fredrick’ Red Wine (OB, 93) which is dense, chewy and downright delicious at the four year mark. I love the 2016 Spring valley ‘Uriah’ Red Wine (OB, 94) which shows insanely good range and a silky mouthfeel. Learn more about these outstanding wines at springvalleyvineyard.com

Here are my reviews of the fantastic new Spring Valley wines. 

2016 Spring Valley ‘Nina Lee’ Syrah- The 2016 Spring Valley ‘Nina Lee’ Syrah is another fantastic effort from this storied Washington winery. Salted smoked meats and black tea, as well as black licorice and milk chocolate aromas meld together in the glass. The palate has good weight and freshness, with a deep core of dark fruits that mingle with shades of mocha, tar and anise. Fantastic now, showing its silky mouthfeel, this will continue to develop for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2029- 92

2016 Spring Valley ‘Katherine Corkrum’ Cabernet Franc- Entirely comprised of Cabernet Franc, the wine was aged in 100% neutral French oak for eighteen months before bottling. this shows ripe dark fruits that connect with spicecake and tar aromas that take shape in the glass. The palate has a silky texture, delivering a great feel of elegance. Toasty oak wraps around blackberry pie and milk chocolate with sagebrush flavors, providing a soft texture that entices. Enjoy this fantastic Cabernet Franc bottling over the next decade. Drink 2020-2029- 93

2016 Spring Valley ‘Fredrick’ Red Wine- Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (93%), the ‘Fredrick’ has lovely herbal tones that collide with dark chocolate shavings, boysenberry, leather and pipe tobacco on this expressive bouquet. Soft, round and generous, this has an inviting mouthfeel and velvety texture. Light tannins line a core of dark fruits, chocolate fudge and baking spices. Truly fabulous now, the 2016 ‘Fredrick’ Red Wine will provide drinking enjoyment for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2016 Spring Valley ‘Uriah’ Red Wine- The ‘Uriah’ is named after Uriah Corkrum who was born in Walla Walla on June 1, 1866, and began successfully farming on his own during the 1880s. The wine is a fantastic blend of 59% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec that was aged in 100% French oak (25% new) prior to bottling. The red bell pepper and sagebrush tones entice and meld with the shades of black licorice, exotic spices and deep dark fruits that all collide in the glass. The palate shows a soft texture ands silky mouthfeel, delivering rich dark fruits with milk chocolate covered espresso bean and herbal undertones. Wonderful in its youth, the ‘Uriah’ will provide drinking enjoyment for the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

2016 Spring Valley ‘Derby’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Derby’ Cabernet Sauvignon (100%) was aged in French oak (35% new) for eighteen months prior to bottling. Red bell pepper and baking spices with chocolate and roasted figs fill the nose. The palate is plush, delivering a wonderfully generous mouthfeel. Dense pipe tobacco and mocha flavors mingle with blackberry pie and shades of black olive and anise that all meld together in unity. While beautiful now, the 2016 ‘Derby’ will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2033- 93

Domaine Carneros

My wife and I sat down, socially distanced and looked out across the valley. One of the most beautiful sites in Napa, Domaine Carneros is a stunning winery in the Carneros region of Napa Valley. Taking inspiration from a French chateau in Champagne, Domaine Carneros towers over the valley, showcasing sweeping views of the Napa Valley. Claude Taittinger of famed Champagne house Taittinger, began his search for a good spot to make California Sparkling Wine in the late 1970s. Finally in 1987 he selected a 138-acre parcel in the Carneros region of the Napa Valley. 

Domaine Carneros has a new CEO, Remi Cohen who in 2015 was named to Wine Enthusiast’s 40 under 40 recognition as a tastemaker and influencer in the Napa Valley. Sitting with Remi she talked about their winery program and the success built by famed Napa pioneer Eileen Crane provided to Domaine Carneros for 33 years. Tasting through the new lineup of wines, I was and have been consistently impressed how good their lineup across the board has been. 

I absolutely love the NV Domaine Carneros ‘Cuvee de la Pompadour’ Rose Sparkling Wine (OB, 92) which is a really great flavor and aromatic range for the price. I was absolutely blown away with the 2013 Domaine Carneros ‘Le Reve’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 95) which is amongst the best sparkling wines made in North America. The wine was initially inspired by Champagne Taittinger’s Comtes de Champagne, as their tête-de-cuvée, and impresses its silky mouthfeel and wonderful veil of tension. Learn more about these outstanding wines at https://www.domainecarneros.com Here are the new sparkling wines by Domaine Carneros

NV Domaine Carneros ‘Cuvee de la Pompadour’ Rose Sparkling Wine- The NV Domaine Carneros ‘Cuvee de la Pompadour’ Sparkling Wine is an outstanding effort from this storied Carneros estate. The wine is named after Madame de Pompadour (the great courtesan and mistress of Louis XV) who is credited with introducing Champagne to the court. A lovely salmon hue, this shows pretty guava and teaberry tones on the palate, with minerals a nice dusting of salinity. Fresh and vibrant, the ‘Madame de Pompadour’ will cellar well for the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 92

2013 Domaine Carneros ‘Le Reve’ Sparkling Wine- Always 100% Chardonnay, the 2013 ‘Le Reve’ is a tour de force from this storied Carneros house. The mousse here is highly refined. Salted biscuit aromatic tones grab your attention with Meyer lemon zest and shades of wild mushroom and toasted hazelnuts all take shape in the glass. The silly mousse is downright incredible. Bright kumquat zest and sourdough bread tones mingle with macadamia nut and suggestions of white truffles on this complex palate. This is salty and savory California sparkling wine at its best. Beautifully textured, with great length, this stunning new bottling will enjoy a very long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2018 Domaine Carneros ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir shows black cherry and cola on the nose with shades of sandalwood that all mingle in the glass. The palate is soft and round with layers of bright red and dark fruits with cola tones giving this a hedonistic edge. Drink 2020-2027- 90

2018 Domaine Carneros ‘The Famous Gate’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 ‘The Famous Gate’ is a barrel selection Pinot Noir by Domaine Carneros, as they began making this bottling back in 1992. Once on the nose, you are awoken to bright red rose petals woven together with red cherry, guava puree and baking spices. The palate is soft and silky with a wonderful sense of mouthfeel. The length and tension here is seriously good as the core of red fruits mingle with minerals and cola tones. While obviously quite rich, the elegance of this wine is really compelling. Every bit outstanding, this fantastic new bottling is great to savor right now, and will provide drinking enjoyment for another fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 94

Argyle: The Art of Sparkling

One of the famed houses in Oregon, I fondly recall visits to Argyle back in 2002 — more than a decade before their beautiful and modern facility was erected. Back when I first began tasting in Oregon I took notice that Argyle was steadily gaining a sterling reputation for sparkling wines under their guidance of Oregon legendary winemaker Rollin Soles.  For anyone who has visited the Willamette Valley, Argyle is always an awesome stop as they offer a really cool flight of bubbles and also produce not only one of the consistently great ‘Brut’ sparkling wines that you will find, but also their famed ‘Extended Tirage’ which has been one of the top sparkling wines made in North America. 

A few years back Argyle launched ‘The Art of Sparkling’ which is an amazing project that support the talents of student artists. A collaboration with the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA), every year three PNCA student artists are selected to receive the Argyle scholarship. The students then immerse themselves in the Argyle story by visiting the vineyards, winery and Tasting House. This experience serves as inspiration for their artwork. The three pieces of art are then turned into labels for the Art of Sparkling 3-bottle set. This is just an amazing program that helps support the arts and includes three bottles of their glorious new 2017 Argyle ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 91) which overdelivers for the price. 

2017 Argyle ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2017 ‘Brut’ by Argyle is geared towards finesse, with a soft texture that entices. Layers of green apple and cantaloupe tones collide with minerals and damp earth undertones on the palate. With a silky mousse and good length, this is a beautiful 2017 bottling that will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2020-2028- 91

Horsepower Vineyards

Christophe Baron has always loved animals. Growing up in France he fondly recalls spending time in the vineyards amongst the massive draft horses that helped till the soils. It is that childhood inspiration that led to creating one of the most coveted lineup of wines in the Pacific Northwest, Horsepower Vineyards. In his Walla Walla AVA vineyards his horses help cultivate vineyards ranging from 3,555 to 4,840 vines per acre with as little as 3' x 3' spacing—planted 1 vine per stake, or “sur echalas” in French. One of the most exciting vineyards in Washington State, the Sur Echalas Vineyard creates wines that are so profound they’re nearly impossible to describe. The struggle of the vines in these close quarters creates a remarkable tension and intensity. These stunning wines are made by Christophe and his highly talented assistant vigneronne, Elizabeth Bourcier. The wines from this vineyard are intense with a vibrant sense of minerality and they show exceptional range. Simply put, they are unlike any other wines from this region. These are wines that are vibrant in their youth but also have some great aging potential. I have visited several 2012 and 2013 Horsepower wines over the past year and have been impressed with the sterling tension intact. 

One of the monumental wines I have tried all year, the 2017 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Grenache (OB, 99) is not only insanely delicious but shows unrivaled complexity and pure terroir.I was also blown away with the 2017 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Syrah (OB, 98) which shows amazing smoky tones and good richness with incredible finesse. As I stated last year with the 2016 releases, I think that these are amongst the finest Rhone style wines made in North America. Learn more about these monumental wines at https://horsepowervineyards.com/horsepowervineyards/ Here are the stunning new wines by Horsepower Vineyards.

2017 Horsepower Vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Grenache- The ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ -is a 3-foot by 3-foot spacing and 4,840 vines per acre, this 2 acre site is the highest density planting in the Walla Walla Valley and one of the highest density plantings in North America. The intoxicating bouquet catches you off-guard. Layers of guava puree and red cherry starburst candy combine with horse manure, green peppercorns and cigar ash with potpourri and salted meats. The aromatic range is just insanely good. Once on the mouth, the ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Grenache offers a pillowy texture that borders on ethereal. The finesse and beautiful tension runs through the core of bright red fruits that dance with kumquat zest, cigar box, white pepper and salted prosciutto ham on the palate. While quite big on the mouth, the weightless quality of the wine is superlative. A monumental wine that is amongst the best of its kind in North America, the 2017 ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Grenache will provide drinking enjoyment over the next decade. Drink 2020-2030- 99

2017 Horsepower Vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Syrah- Stony, complex and utterly sensational, the 2017 Horsepower vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Syrah borders on pefection. It is not surprising that this shows a darker aromatic profile than the Grenache with wild blackberry compote, smoked brisket, creosote and Kalmata olive tapenade that all march in unison. The palate is fresh, vibrant and full of mouth-watering acidity. Umami tones are woven together with menthol, charcuterie, smoldering stones and Hoisin sauce. With a seamless texture, good sense of richness, yet very elegant, the 2017 ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Syrah is impossible to resist in its youth but will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 98

2017 Horsepower Vineyards ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ Syrah- One of the new plantings by Christophe Baron, the ‘High Contrast Vineyard’ is a high density site planted to 3 acres of Syrah and 1/3 acre of Viognier. The nose is wonderfully high-toned with orange blossoms that connect with smoked meats, black olive tapenade and shades of boysenberry cordial that all mingle in the glass. The palate is fresh and vibrant with gobs of mouth-watering acidity and a seamless texture. Very pretty kirsch and Satsuma orange rind connect with roasted dates, wet gavel and seaweed on this complex palate. Finishing very long, this beautiful new wine will enjoy another eight to ten years ahead of it. Drink 2020-2030- 96

2017 Horsepower Vineyards ‘The Tribe Vineyard’ Syrah- Another vineyard planted in stony terroir, ‘The Tribe Vineyard’ is a 3.5 feet by 3.5 feet planted site, totaling 3,555 vines per acre. Smoldering rocks and cigar box tones connect with dark plum and green peppercorns with Umami tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is fresh, vibrant and incredibly delicious. Ripe dark fruits collide with minerals, seaweed, Spanish green olives and salted meats on the palate. The generous length and wonderful purity of fruit is impressive. Highly gratifying to enjoy in its youth, this beautiful new Syrah will enjoy another decade of life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2030- 96

Leonetti Cellar Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

One whiff and I knew this wine was from the Rocks AVA. Not many people can make this kind of wine from the cobblestoned terroir. It is now roughly one year since I sat across famed winemaker Chris Figgins and tasted these wines for the first time. Leonetti has always been a highly traditional winery, making several wines each year and not branching out to new projects. The new single vineyard project is a great chance for Chris to enter another element as a winemaker and the end results is quite extraordinary. This time rather than tasting with Chris, I opened each bottle and tasted them over several hours, watching them evolve. As I noted last year, I am enamored by the expression of terroir here. Each wine is distinct but all share the same backbone of rich dark fruits with fantastic weight and cellaring potential.

Truly one of the unique wines made in Washinton, I adored the 2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Holy Roller Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 95) which is silky and shows a great lay of salinity from the stony terroir. This is amongst the finest expression of Rocks Cabernet Sauvignon that I have seen. A shining star, the 2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Mill Creek Upland’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 97) is dense, chewy and massive with an incredible veil of tension. This will be a great wine to revisit in ten years, as it needs a long decant if enjoying in its unadulterated youth. Learn more about these stunning new wines at http://leonetticellar.com/ Here are my reviews of the beautiful new Leonetti Cellar Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon wines. 

2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Holy Roller Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Located in the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater, the ‘Holy Roller Vineyard’ is a dramatic site planted on cobblestones, set at 950-970 feet elevation. Once on the nose the lighter stony character really entices as Umami tones combine with creosote, coffee grounds and dark chocolate shavings. The palate is soft, round and generous. I love the silky mouthfeel at play here, adding to the enjoyment as layers of kirsch cordial, blackberry compote, cigar box, wet stone and a light dusting of salinity all marvelously intermingle. Seamless and elegant, lined with light tannins, this beautiful new wine will cellar well for the next fifteen years. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Loess Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Loess Vineyard’ was planted to Bordeaux varietals nearly 20 years ago just due east of the winery. Weighing in at 14.7% alcohol, layers of toasty oak aromatics are woven together with violets, Turkish coffee and shades of huckleberry liquor on this gorgeous nose. The palate is fresh and impeccably balanced. Ripe dark cherries combine with cigar ash, Turkish coffee and shades of blueberry compote on this deep and luxuriously textured wine. Sinfully good to enjoy in its hedonistic youth, the 2017 ‘Loess Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon will enjoy drinking enjoyment for many decades to come. Be sure to give this a long decant if enjoying in its nascent phase. Drink 2020-2040- 96

2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Mill Creek Upland Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2017 ‘Mill Creek Upland Vineyard’ by Leonetti is a superlative effort by superstar winemaker Chris Figgins. Needing a one hour decant to be fully expressive, once aroused this beautiful wine shows violet rose petals and creme de cassis woven together with black olives, baking spices and mocha tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is round and generous, showing really good viscosity but a gorgeous veil of tension that run through the core of dark fruits. Undertones of espresso bean and blueberry pie also add to the enjoyment. With a resounding long finish, the 2017 ‘Mill Creek Upland Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a monumental release that will cellar well over the next twenty years. Drink 2020-2040- 97

2017 Leonetti Cellar ‘Serra Pedace’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Serra Pedace Vineyard’ is named after the Leonetti’s Italian ancestors who originated from Calabria, Italy. Deeply colored in the glass, the Cabernet Sauvignon shows intense asian spices that mingle with black currants, cigar box and anise tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is plush and deep, with layers of dark fruits that mingle with coffee ground and dried herbs. Sensational in its youth, this needs about a two hour decant to fully get going. Drink 2020-2040- 95

Wine Critic Owen Bargreen Launches OwenBargreen.com

By Press Release

October 1, 2020

Seattle, WA., October 1, 2020—Today wine critic Dr. Owen Bargreen ushered in the launching of OwenBargreen.com, formerly Washington Wine Blog and washingtonwineblog.com. Leaving his position as senior editor at International Wine Report, Dr. Owen Bargreen will continue his expert coverage on Washington, Oregon and California wines, wineries and will share in-depth written interviews and video interviews on his Instagram page, https://www.instagram.com/owenbargreen/

“I want to continue to produce independent, cutting edge content that highlight the finest wines of Washington, Oregon and California that I hope you all will enjoy,” said Dr. Bargreen. “This will be a chance to be more fully independent and continue to merge my skills as a clinical psychologist in the interviews and writing that I do.” All consumer and industry content will remain free to everyone. “These are challenging times and people need a bit of joy more than ever. I think not including advertising and making my content free to everyone is exactly what our industry needs right now,” remarked Dr. Bargreen. Owen will continue international wine reviews, particularly wines of Spain and Sauternes.

Cayuse Vineyards ‘Edith’ Rose

Sometimes when I find a wine so incredibly pensive and moving, I simply have to feature that single wine. Much of the world has fallen in love with the Syrah wines by Cayuse Vineyard and eminent vigneron, Christophe Baron. Together with his uber-talented vigneronne, Elizabeth Bourcier, they have been consistently crafting some of the most compelling wines on the West Coast. 

For the past three years the Cayuse ‘Edith’ Rose has been tied for the top performing Rose in my Pacific Northwest Rose Report. The wine is a very carefully crafted Rose, with incredible nuance. Christophe has spoken to me at length about how the top Rose wines of Provence (Domaine Ott, Domaine Tempier, etc.) have inspired him in creating his own Rose. 

Those who know me well understand that I am crazy for top notch Rose regardless of region. While some of my colleagues may disagree, I feel strongly that there is something about a great Rose wine with intention that really inspires. At its best it is a highly complex wine that stands with any great wine of its kind. The ‘Edith’ Rose is sourced from the ‘Armada Vineyard’ which is set on massive cobblestones. At this site Christophe has two rows of vines which are farmed at a mere two tons per acre. His Rose is usually very low alcohol, sometimes nearing 12%. The combination of weight, tension, and mouthfeel is consistently incredible. I feel that his 2018 Rose is amongst the best that I have ever tried. And no further adieu, I give you my tasting notes from the 2018 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Edith’ Rose. 

2018 Cayuse Vineyards ‘Edith’ Rose- The 2018 ‘Edith’ Rose is a highly refreshing and gratifying new wine that is amongst the best of its kind in North America. Sourced from the ‘Armada Vineyard’, once on the nose this takes on pretty red rose petals that mingle with cantaloupe and wet stone and smoky tones that all meld in the glass. The palate is wonderfully fresh and vibrant with great acidity and a seamless texture. Layers of Gravenstein apple, watermelon, nectarine and kumquat zest collide with minerals and smoky undertones on this complex palate. As the wine warms up, it becomes even more nuanced and complex, still showing wonderful mouth-watering acidity. Scintillating in its youth, this stunning new Rose will enjoy another eight plus years of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2028- 94

Hors Catégorie

As we head into fall we share one of the outstanding wines produced in North America. Translated to ‘beyond categorization’ Hors Catégorie is a magnificent expression of terroir in a bottle. Sourced from a mere 2 acre vineyard hidden in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, the Hors Catégorie Vineyard is a sight to be seen. This vineyard is so steep that you struggle to climb it. As you whisk away beads of sweat from your forehead, the views from the top of the vineyard are simply breathtaking. 

Spacing at this stunning vineyard is extremely tight and the wine is remarkably cropped at less than a ton an acre. The terroir was largely stony with thick broken basalt sprinkled everywhere. You can almost feel the tension in the wines from the struggle of each individual vine. The 2017 Hors Categorie Syrah (WWB, 98) is nothing short of a magical, one of a kind effort —truly one of the finest wines I have tried in North America throughout the past year. While the stony terroir plays second fiddle, the other parts to the wine, the savory notes and flavor and aromatic range is just insanely good. The tension here is sensational as this edition vs. the 2016 is a bit more focused on freshness and beautiful finesse rather than weight. I think you will be just as pleased as I was with this highly sought after Syrah. Learn more about this marvelous Syrah at https://horscategorievineyards.com/horscategorievineyards/ Here is the new review for the incredible 2017 Hors Catégorie Syrah. 

2017 Hors Catégorie Syrah (Spring 2021 release)- The name ‘Hors Categorie’ is a French term most frequently used in stage bicycle races to designate a climb that is 'beyond categorization.’ The nose is wonderfully stony with Umami, green olive tapenade, salted ham and wild blackberry cobbler tones that all meld in the glass. The seamless texture is seriously impressive as this weightless wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Bulls blood and charcuterie flavors connect with wild blackberry cordial, cigar ash and garrigue with orange zest undertones. This is Jamet meets Oregon —truly one of the finest wines I have tasted in the past year. Sensational in its youth, with its graceful finesse, I can see this giving drinking enjoyment for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 98

Geodesy

It surprises me sometimes how many great new wineries we see on the west coast. Geodesy was founded in hopes to help advance the next generation of women in agriculture. Production focuses on estate vineyard wines and profits help support their WG Edge program which connects "Edgers" with a multi-generational village of teachers, mentors, and internship sponsors who guide, support, and open doors for them. Our hope is that these young women will play a significant role in helping agriculture in our region thrive.

In 2015 Judy Jordan sold J Vineyards, an incredibly successful sparkling wine house. Since that time she has carefully been working on a new winery project, and founded Geodesy in 2019. Over time Judy and her team acquired vineyards in Oregon’s Eola-Amity Hills and Chehalem Mountains, Sonoma County’s Petaluma Gap, and Napa Valley. The wines are made by Megan Baccitich, formerly Director of Winemaking for Paul Hobbs Wines. I was really impressed with the range of new releases that I found to be outstanding across the board. I love the 2018 Geodesy ‘Eola Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which has really nice depth and layers. Even better is the sinfully good 2017 Geodesy ‘Sage Ridge Vineyard; Red Wine (WWB, 94) which is wonderfully concentrated, with a great veil of tension that connects with the core of dark fruits. Learn more about this outstanding new winery at https://geodesywine.com/ Here are the great new releases by Geodesy. 

2018 Geodesy ‘Eola Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Toasted brioche and salted macadamia nut with smoky undertones all collide on the nose. The palate is unabashedly rich with a silky texture and very pretty melon and orchard fruits that mingle with lemon creme brulee. This is Oregon meets Sonoma. The seriously good weight suggests some aging potential. Drink 2020-2030- 93

2018 Geodesy ‘Chelahem Mountain Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Compared to the ‘Eola Springs VIneyard’ the ‘Chelahem Mountain Vineyard’ is geared more towards finesse — yet it still packs a serious punch with its rich vanilla cream and baked apple flavors. The minerality is outstanding as this beautiful new Chardonnay will enjoy another decade of life ahead of it, picking up nutty and earthy tones as it cellars. Drink 2020-2030- 92 

2018 Geodesy ‘Eola Springs Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2018 Geodesy ‘Eola Springs VIneyard’ shows great freshness and concentration with ripe red and dark fruits that mingle with shades of sandalwood and forest floor on the palate. Rich and viscous, with a great veil of tension, this beautiful bottling will have another decade or more of life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2018 Geodesy ‘Chehalem Mountan Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- A wine with great terroir, the volcanic terroir is quite evident on the palate here. Layers of wild blackberries and minerals are woven together with black truffle shavings and Mandarin orange rind on the palate. Complex and delightful to revel in its youth, this fantastic 2018 Pinot Noir will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2033- 93

2017 Geodesy ‘Sage Ridge VIneyard’ Red Wine- The 2017 Geodesy ‘Sage Ridge Vineyard’ Red Wine is a gorgeous effort from Napa. Dark chocolate shavings and Turkish coffee tones with red rose florals combine with the deep core of dark fruits aromatically. The palate is dense yet well-balanced. Layers of chocolate covered espresso bean and sagebrush combine with black currant cordial and tar on the palate. The length and elegance of this wine is really impressive, as the 2017 ‘Sage Ridge Vineyard’ Red Wine will enjoy another fifteen to twenty years ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 94

Domaine Serene World’s Most Awarded Winery at Decanter 2020 World Wine Awards

We share some big news out of Oregon today as Domaine Serene is the world’s most awarded winery at the Decanter 2020 World Wine Awards. Domaine Serene has received an astounding 23 medals at Decanter Magazine's 2020 World Wine Awards. This sweeping recognition includes a coveted 'Best in Show' top title, four Gold medals, 17 Silver medals and one Bronze medal. 
The 2016 Domaine Serene Mark Bradford Vineyard Pinot Noir was named best in show and was tasted by an elite international panel made up of 118 expert wine judges including 37 Masters of Wine and nine Master Sommeliers who, over the course of 28 consecutive days, judged 16,518 wines from 56 countries. 
Huge congrats to them on their hard work 

Sanguis

Back in 2011 I was at a great tasting and I was introduced to these wines that have literally blown up the Santa Barbara wine scene. I won’t forget the first time that I tried these viscous, novel wines. Sanguis, truly one of the great boutique wineries in California. Superstar winemaker Matthias Pippig produces a really novel range of wines, from Viognier to Cabernet Franc. Latin for blood, the German-born Matthias Pippig previously worked as a wine importer for Marc DeGrazia Selections, and Estate Wines, before starting his winery in the Santa Ynez Valley. If you have never had a chance to try these wines, I highly recommend that you do.

Pippig changes blends yearly in his Rhône and Bordeaux style wines, hand sorts each wine and never makes the same wine twice. Many of his wines weigh in at over 15% alcohol but they do not present as highly alcoholic. However, the theme of impressive weight and texture runs through all of his wines. While the wines have good richness the tension that runs through the core of the wine is quite impressive as well. 

I am always amazed by the Rose that Sanguis makes and this edition from 2018, their ‘Amor For No. 5’ (WWB, 94) is quite literally the best Rose that I have had this year in North America. The texture and aromatic flavor range is unreal, as this beautiful wine is better warmed up a bit. Pippig crafts makes some of the best white blends in California. The new edition, the 2017 Sanguis ‘Stolen Moments’ White Wine (WWB, 95) is fresh and vibrant yet has an incredible texture and rich mouthfeel. This is a white wine that will cellar marvelously for a decade or more. Just as good was the 2016 Sanguis ‘1/1’ Syrah (WWB, 95) which deep and inky, yet having a weightless feel once on the mouth. Learn more about these very special wines at sanguiswine.com or visit their hip tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara, which is by appointment. Here are the new releases by Sanguis.

2017 Sanguis ‘Stolen Moments’ White Wine- The 2017 Stolen Moments by Sanguis is a mesmerizing white blend that needs about two hours in the decanter to fully evolve. After some air layers of nectarine rind, beeswax, lychee and ripe pineapple all magically combine to fill this exotic bouquet. The palate is lush, showing a wonderful sense of mouthfeel and powerful vein of tension that runs through the copious orchard and citrus fruits, with earthy undertones. Gobs of mouth watering acidity and tremendous length contribute to the drinking enjoyment. A complete wine, the 2017 ‘Stolen Moments’ White Wine will enjoy a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘The Secret’ White Wine- Sourced from the Santa Ynez Valley, the 2017 ‘The Secret’ like the other Sanguis wines really needs a two hour decant to fully evolve. Right away you are drawn to the tones of honeydew melon, pink grapefruit blossom and crisp Pink Lady apple aromatics with baking spices that all collide in the glass. The palate has a great feel of freshness and a soft texture. The gratifying length to the wine really adds to the enjoyment as sour Yakima cherry and melon tones meld with the wet stone and damp earth accents of the wine. A long-ager, the 2017 ‘The Secret’ is brilliant in its youth and will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2020-2030- 94

2018 Sanguis ‘Amor Fou No. 5’ Rose- The 2018 ‘Amor Fou No. 5’ is nothing short of a masterpiece by the hands of Matthias Pippig. This shows slightly better warmed up a bit. Showing off its unique brown and yellow tones, the Rose needs an hour decant to fully evolve. Damp earth tones combine with shades of red currants an red cherry preserves on the nose. The palate is exceedingly gratifying with excellent weight, acidity and a sensational finish as the crescendo. The salty and savory undertones of the wine add to the enjoyment. As it grasps for more air, the texture comes on even stronger becoming downright pillowy. Truly sensational in its youth, the ‘Amour Fo No. 5’ Rose will have a long life in the cellar, picking up earthy tones as it ages. Drink 2020-2028- 94

2016 Sanguis ‘Loner’ Chardonnay- This marks the last Chardonnay that Matthias Pippig will make from the famed Bien Nacido Vineyard. The wine shows pretty lemon blossom tones that combine with poached pear and vanilla creme brûlée on the nose. Showing seriously good stony terroir, a light dusting of salinity falls upon the core of pear and apple fruits with hints of bananas foster adding to the decadence. Rich and layered with gorgeous length, this stunning wine will enjoy al long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘Bossman’ Red Wine-The 2017 ‘Bossman’ is a gorgeous blend of Syrah, Petit Sirah, Grenache and Viognier that was aged for twenty five months in 60% new French oak before bottling. A decadent treat to consume, the layers of toasty oak wrap around the deep core of dark and blue fruits with tobacco leaf tones, exotic spices and chocolate covered espresso bean providing an err of decadence. The length and texture is just insanely good. Lingering long, with great freshness, this beautiful red blend will have a long life ahead of it. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘Verve’ Red Wine- Always highly unique, the 2017 ‘Verve’ is a gorgeous blend of Grenache, Petit Sirah and Roussanne. The high tones from the nose really entice as citrus blossom and bright red fruits combine with the rich dark tones aromatically. The palate is plush, showing great weight and acidity. Layers of pomegranate seed and blackberry compote mingle with a feeling of dusty and salty terroir. Long and lingering at the end, the 2017 ‘Verve’ will cellar well for another decade or more. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘Tell Me A Tale’ Cabernet Sauvignon- the 2017 Sanguis ‘Tell Me A tale’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a simply marvelous effort that has a long life ahead of it. Sourced from the Santa Ynez Valley, the Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a beautiful bouquet of blackberry pie and mocha tones that combine with chocolate covered espresso bean and tar that all mingle in the glass. The weight of this wine is highly gratifying as the bright acidity brings you back to the glass for more enjoyment Hedonistic and layered with outstanding length, this beautiful wine will cellar well for decades to come. Drink 2020-2035- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘1/1’ Grenache- This Central Coast AVA bottling is translucent in the glass. Not needing any time in the decanter, right away you are amazed by the pretty high tones of red rose petal, lychee, orange blossom and shades of cloves that all dance in the glass. The palate unveils a silky elegance with a wonderful tension and mouthfeel. Layers of bright red fruits meld with citrus rind and stony undertones. This is truly one of the great Grenache wines made in California with the combination of finesse, richness and bright, mouth-watering acidity. Layered and downright delicious in its youth, the ‘1/1’ Grenache will cellar well for the next decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘1/1/ Syrah- Sourced from the Santa Rita Hills AVA, the ‘1/1’ Syrah is another sensational release by the talented Matthias Pippig. The earthy accents really provide good range on the nose with the core of dark fruits, citrus blossom and cocoa powder tones. The palate is silky smooth and marvelously textured. Layers of ripe red and black fruits march in unison with orange rind and peat moss tones on the palate. The gratifying length, bright acidity and weight all add to the enjoyment. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘1/1’ Syrah will cellar well for another decade to come. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘The Modern’ Red Wine- The 2017 ‘The Modern’ by Sanguis is a gorgeous blend of Syrah with a small portion of Viognier. The smoky and savory aromatic tones really entice with citrus blossom mingling with the smoked pork shoulder and bacon fat tones alongside the core of dark fruits. The wine is beautifully textured, showing off incredible length and a seamless effect as this dance across the mid-palate. Bright cranberry and red currants combine with the smoky and earthy tones of the wine, with orange zest accents. Gorgeous to enjoy in its youth, the 2017 ‘The Modern’ Red Wine will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘The Optimist’ Red Wine- The Sanguis ‘The Optimist’ is a one of a kind blend of Syrah, Grenache, Petit Verdot and Roussanne. Bell pepper tones combine with star jasmine, deep red fruits and tobacco tones on the nose. The palate is silky smooth showing off an incredible mouthfeel and texture. Pipe tobaocco, leather and green bell pepper tones mingle with smoked brisket, orange rind and blackberry compote on the palate. The flavor and aromatic range here is nothing short of insanely good. Gorgeous to savor right now, the 2017 ‘The Optimist’ will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2020-2033- 95

2017 Sanguis ‘The Highlands’ Red Wine- A proprietary blend sourced from a warmer part of the Santa Ynez Valley, the 2017 ‘The Highlands’ red wine shows pretty rose water and red cherry candy that mingles with shades of cinnamon, clove and Mandarin orange zest on the nose. The texture and verve of the wine is seriously good as this gives off an err of elegance. Bright red fruits and citrus rind accents dance with the earthy and smoky tones of the wine. Wait for the exceedingly long finish at the end. Drink 2020-2033- 95

Elephant Seven

Now more of a Walla Walla mainstay than a new winery, I have really enjoyed the wines by Joshua West of Elephant Seven. Like many people in the wine industry, Josh comes from a diverse background in investment banking and has only has been winemaking on a full time basis for several years. He has previously worked for Whitehaven in New Zealand as well as interning at Figgins, Cadaretta, and Dusted Valley in Walla Walla. In the past several years he and his wife began their winery in Walla Walla and have a their tasting room in downtown Walla Walla. The wines he makes are classy, focusing on a combination of varietal typicity, mouthfeel and tension. Josh has a very high ceiling as a winemaker.

I love the new 2018 Elephant Seven ‘Yellow Bird VIneyard’ Grenache (WWB, 92) which shows very pretty red fruits and has good range. Even better was the 2016 Elephant Seven ‘River Rock Vineyard’ Syrah (WWB, 93) which shows nice stony terroir from this Walla Walla Rocks AVA vineyard. Learn more about this exciting new Washington winery at https://www.elephantsevenwine.com/ Here are the new releases by Elephant Seven. 

2018 Elephant Seven ‘Yellow Bird Vineyard’ Grenache- A blend of 80% Grenache with the remainder Syrah, this shows pretty florals alongside the smoky and dark fruit aromatic tones on the nose. The palate is bright, with great acidity and a soft mouthfeel. Layers of boysenberry compote mingle with coffee grounds and shades of bacon fat and Umami on the palate. This is seriously good stuff in its youth, as this beautiful new Grenache will cellar well over the next eight plus years. Drink 2020-2028- 92

2018 Elephant Seven ‘River Rock Vineyard’ Syrah- One of the great sites in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA, right away you are entrenched in the bacon fat and dried Provencale aromatic tones with shades of huckleberry. The palate is soft and generous with a silky mouthfeel. Bright red fruits dance with shades of kumquat zest, Umami and charcuterie on the palate. Great toe enjoy even at the two year mark, this has another five to seven years of drinking enjoyment. Drink 2020-2026- 93

Quilceda Creek

Sitting across, socially distanced from superstar winemaker Paul Golitzin, I knew what an honor it was to be the first wine critic to try their 2018 wines. The 2018 vintage marks the 40th vintage for Quilceda Creek, a remarkable winery story that is truly one of the greats not only in Washington but in North America. “The 2018 vintage was moderately warm and in the end it cooled off and gave us a lot of hang time” said Paul. He admitted that he has been really excited about how his new plantings at the Champoux Vineyard are showing. “They are vibrant in the glass and have wonderful perfume that adds a different dimension to the wines. Clone 191 has tones of power and a black walnut character that I taste 191 from the tank.” While in Hawaii Paul enjoyed a 2003 Chateau Latour which reminded him of this Clone 191 Cabernet Sauvignon with the signature perfumed character of the wine. He continued to share how important clonal selection has been in crafting his wines. “Clone 412 is hugely spice driven while 685 has black fruit and amazing perfume to it. I think it reminds me of Cabernet Franc, it is innately Cabernet Franc yet is Cabernet Sauvignon. That is probably my favorite clone.”

The many layers in these wines is quite enthralling. Even in their entry level wine, the 2018 Quilceda Creek ‘CVR’ (WWB, 94) you can really feel the floral tones and complexity of this wine, with voluptuous fruit character ranging from black to blue fruits. I absolutely love this wine. Even better is their 2018 Quilceda Creek ‘Palengat’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 96) which I feel is their best ‘Palengat’ ever crafted. This stunning bottling is utterly sensational right now after a lot of air and will cellar well for more than fifteen years. Both the ‘Columbia Valley’ and ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ bottlings are going to be monumental wines and need a bit more time in the bottle, but I was able to get a really good feel for these wines over several hours. I can say that both wines have the potential to be as good as any ever produced, as I gave a preliminary rating of 98-100 on both wines and will revisit them in the future.

Finally, I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Quilceda Creek on their 40th vintage and their dedication to crafting world class wines and paving the way for so many in the Washington Wine Industry. Learn more about this storied winery at quilcedacreek.com. Here are my notes for the future release 2018 wines.  

2018 Quilceda Creek ‘CVR’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘CVR’ by Quilceda Creek is a gorgeous wine that is showing brilliantly even at the two year mark. A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon with 4% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc. The nose shows wonderful florals with violets and red rose petals, combining with sagebrush and a deep core of dark fruits with underlying blueberry cobbler. The palate is fresh and viscous with a wonderful veil of tension. Ripe blackberries and blueberry compote flavors mingles with cassis tones and light tannins. Drink 2020-2032- 94

2018 Quilceda Creek ‘Palengat’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Named after Paul Golitzin’s mother’s French heritage, the 2018 ‘Palengat’ is a stunning new wine by Quilceda Creek. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (97%) from Champoux, and Mach One Vineyards, with the Cabernet Franc (3%) from the Palengat Vineyard, this shows lovely non-fruit character on the nose with tar and chocolate covered espresso bean tones that mingle with the deep blue fruits and florals on this exotic bouquet. The palate is deep and voluptuous showing an insanely good texture and richness, yet not coming off overly heavy. A very light dusting of salinity adds to the complexity. The pillowy texture is gorgeous as layers of blueberry compote and creosote are woven together with graphite, sagebrush and blackberry pie on the palate. This is quite simply the best ‘Palengat’ I have tried since they began making this wine in 2006. Drink 2020-2036- 96

2018 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- 98-100

2018 Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- 98-100