Upchurch Vineyard

One of the standout producers on Red Mountain, Upchurch Vineyard is a sight to be seen. Located in the southwestern part of the AVA, the winery has expansive views of the Columbia Valley from their estate create an incredible panoramic effect. For those who have never visited Upchurch Vineyard, I implore you to visit if nothing else for the beauty of the site.

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

Chris crafts one of the great Sauvignon Blancs in Washington, his 2020 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc (OB, 93) has an amazing combination of finesse and texture. It is a steal at under 40 dollars. Equally good for the price at under 30 dollars is the new 2021 LTL Rose (OB, 92) which is made from Mourvedre grapes and is nearly impossible to put down. I am enamored by their new wine, the 2019 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Hero Twins’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 96) which is considerably more open than when I tasted the wine seven months ago. This is a massive beast of a wine that really needs another year of bottle age prior to consuming.  Learn more about this fantastic winery at https://upchurchvineyard.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Upchurch Vineyard.

2020 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc- This beautiful 2020 Sauvignon Blanc was sourced from the Boushey Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. Stored for eighteen months in concrete egg tanks, this offers white peach, toasted cashew nut and saline drenched gooseberry notes that all sing in unison. The palate is rich and concentrated with a seamless texture and generous length. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 93

2021 LTL Rose- Made from Moruvedre grapes, the 2021 LTL Rose is a delightful new bottling that shows outstanding finesse and concentration. Once on the attack a kiss of sweetness greets you, as guava puree, cranberry, red rose water and flinty minerals combine with shades of wild mushroom on the palate. Outstanding to consume now, this will hold for at least another five years. Drink 2022-2027- 92

2019 LTL Merlot- The 2019 LTL Merlot was sourced from the Upchurch Vineyard, and offers red plum, cigar ash and cocoa powder dusted red cherry on the nose. The palate is very pure and smooth with ripe red fruits that mingle with a fantastic sense of salinity. Drink this sensational value over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 92

2019 LTL Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2019 LTL Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautiful new effort by the talented Chris Upchurch. Black cherry compote, scorched earth and black licorice all combine on the nose. The palate is soft and elegant with a silky texture. This shows excellent concentration and power, considering the coolness of the vintage. With no rough edges this beautiful wine is great to consume now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2022-2030- 92

2020 LTL ‘Heart of the Hill Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Very dense and dark once in the glass, the delicious 2020 LTL ‘Heart of the Hill Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon delivers Black Forest Cake tones alongside tar and anise on the nose. The palate is rich and refined with silky tannins that line the core of black and blue fruits with espresso grounds and scorched earthy undertones. Drink 2022-2033- 93

2019 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Counterpart’ Merlot- The 20219 ‘Counterpart’ is a silky and savory Merlot by Chris Upchurch. A blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, this was stored in 100% new French Oak (Taransaud & Orion) prior to bottling. The nose is truly gorgeous with red rose petals, blackberry cordial, and mocha tones. The palate is polished and fresh with good verve and viscosity. Medium to full-bodied dark fruits collide with red bell pepper, garrigue, and chocolate covered espresso bean. Great to enjoy in its youth, enjoy this beautiful wine that will be shining brightly for the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 93

2019 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon- This is the tenth edition of this wine which is sourced from the southwestern part of Red Mountain. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon with the reminder Merlot, this opens with pencil lead and sandalwood notes alongside creme de cassis and hints of blackberry compote. The palate is fresh and polished with a silky texture and good length. Everything is beautifully in balance here. Enjoy this sensational new wine over the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2022-2037- 95

2019 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Hero Twins’ Cabernet Sauvignon- In the Mayan tradition the Hero Twins was the story of the genesis of the Sun and the Moon. Entirely Clone 2 Cabernet Sauvignon from Upchurch Vineyard, this was stored in a combination of new Seguin Moreau & Taransaud oak barrels prior to bottling. This really needs more than two hours in the decanter to be fully expressive. Once aroused this unveils beautiful red rose petals, freshly tilled loamy soils, red bell pepper and boysenberry preserves on the nose. The palate is hedonistic and very tannic as massive black and blue fruits greet you with the lovely potpourri and herbal undertones of the wine. With more air this becomes more elegant and refined. Only 50 cases made. Drink 2023-2040- 96

Lytle-Barnett

Lytle-Barnett

It has now been roughly a year since I have reviewed one of the outstanding Oregon producers of sparkling wine. Lytle-Barnett has offered some really impressive wines since I first tasted them back in 2020. Lytle-Barnett utilizes talent across the globe as they have commissioned sparkling wine Oregonian Andrew Davis, as well as South Africa’s sparkling winemaker Pieter Ferreirain making their méthode champenoise wines.

They command a fairly high price at around 75 dollars but they have been worth the splurge.  Sine I first tried these wines I have had other colleagues review the wines similarly. These wines have extended time in tirage before being released which adds to the complexity. I love the new 2018 Lytle-Barnett ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 93) which is unabashedly big from this warm vintage. The combination of weight and finesse is really outstanding here.

Learn more at https://lytle-barnett.com/ and here are my reviews of the great new Lytle-Barnett wines.

2018 Lytle-Barnett ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine- This 2018 ‘Blanc de Noirs’ saw extended tirage and was sourced from the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Green melon and biscuit notes combine with suggestions of nectarine rind on the nose. The palate is beautifully textured with good weight and finesse. Showing the warmth of the vintage, this very rich and gratifying Pinot Noir sparking wine will be sure to hold well over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 93

2017 Lytle-Barnett ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2017 Lytle-Barnett ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine offers kumquat zest, wet stone and copious minerals on the palate, with Gravenstein apple tones. Fresh, with a soft mousse and beautiful length, this is great sparkling wine to savor now and over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 92

Saint K

For years I have admired the boutique producers of Paso Robles. These are typically wines that are well-priced and offer considerable value. Saint K Wines proprietor and winemaker Chris Kiranbay grew up in the Middle East and has a longstanding history in the wine industry. A trip to Napa inspired a move across country to California. Chris worked a harvest there and visited Paso Robles back in 2010. Working in fine dining, as well as a wine brokerage, he began working for Herman Story Wines in 2013, and subsequently began making some of his own wines. His style echos that of Herman Story, as they are unabashedly big, with bright acidity holding everything in place.

I love the new 2021 Saint K ‘Around the Way’ Rose (OB, 92) which shows a sinfully good texture and seriously good weight. 2021 Saint K ‘Flower Bomb’ Malvasia Bianca (OB, 93) which is beautifully floral on the nose, with vibrant acidity and a soft mouthfeel. Learn more about this fantastic boutique winery at https://www.burkewine.com and here are my reviews of the great new Saint K wines. 

2021 Saint K ‘Flower Bomb’ Malvasia Bianca- The very fragrant ‘Flower Bomb’ shows off gorgeous star jasmine and lemon blossom tones that combine with honeycomb and melon fruits on the nose. The palate is polished and lithe with a generous mouthfeel. Finishing very long, with loads of mouth-watering acidity, this is gorgeous Malvasia to consume now and over the next five to seven years. Drink 2022-2028- 93

2021 Saint K ‘Around The Way’ Rose- Made from Pinot Noir grapes, this vibrant Rose from the 2021 vintage opens with damp earthy tones alongside guava and cranberry notes. Very soft and inviting on the mouth, this shows gorgeous length and a gorgeous purity of red fruits on the palate. Drink 2022-2028- 92

2020 Saint K ‘Days Gone By’ Red Wine- The 2020 Saint K ‘Days Gone By’ is a blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The red and black floral notes on the nose really entice, as creosote, leather and smoked meats all combine on the nose. Very fresh once on the mouth, the combination of bright acidity and weight really makes this beautiful wine sing. Gorgeous to consume now in its tension-filled youth, enjoy over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2028- 93

Lost Blues

One of the really exciting projects in Paso Robles, Lost Blues is a tribute to the old times in this region where things moved very slowly. At a mere 19 years of age, Gio Grandinetti worked a harvest at Meridian Vineyards and he found his calling in wine. It wasn’t until 2012 when he started his own label, Lost Blues, and priced the wines at only $42.00.

This is now the third time I have tried these beautiful wines and I have been remarkably impressed with the consistency of both white and red bottlings. They are very well-priced wines for what you get at fifty dollars and less. Look to the beautiful 2020 Lost Blues ‘Luckpenny’ Malvasia Bianca (OB, 93) which is fresh and vibrant with serious flavor range. Even better is the sultry and sexy 2018 Lost Blues ‘High Horse’ Grenache (OB, 94) which shows a gorgeous purity of fruit at its core. Learn more about this fantastic boutique house at http://www.lostblues.us/shop and here are the new release wines by Lost Blues.

2020 Lost Blues ‘Luckpenny’ Malvasia Bianca- The really good 2020 Lost Blues ‘Luckpenny’ Malvasia Bianca is a fantastic new effort by vintner Giovanni Grandinetti. Orange blossom, white peach and shades of cardamom dusted biscotti all come together on the nose. The palate is very fresh and vibrant with a soft texture. Gorgeous to consume now, this will cellar well for another five plus years. Drink 2022-2028- 93

2018 Lost Blues ‘High Horse’ Grenache- The 2018 ‘High Horse’ is a gorgeous expression of Grenache. Pretty red rose petals, orange rind and shades of guava puree on the nose. The palate is soft and inviting with a seamless texture. The purity of fruit at play is outstanding. Rich red fruits parade with tar and garrigue notes on the palate. This is a knockout bottling that is best consumed young. Drink 2022-2030- 94

2018 Lost Blues ‘Good Fences’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘Good Fences’ combines mostly Syrah (69%) with the remainder Grenache. Super inky once on the glass, this reveals smoked brisket, creosote, and rich dark currant tones on the nose. The palate comes off very herbal with hedonistic dark and blue fruit flavors that are held together with the great underlying tension. Drink 2022-2030- 94

Tendril

Sharing one of the great producers of Oregon Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Tendril is the brainchild of famed winemaker, Tony Rynders, who had a host of esteemed stops along his career before settling in Oregon. He has now made Oregon Pinot Noir for more than twenty years. A graduate of the esteemed master’s degree in Enology and Viticulture from UC Davis, Rynders served as former head winemaker for Domaine Serene Winery/Rockblock Cellars before starting Tendril. During his ten years as head head winemaker for Domaine Serene as head winemaker, Rynders obtained more 90+ point scores from the Wine Spectator magazine than any other winemaker during this period of time.

Tony has a tremendous palate and is a wonderfully down to earth guy who also makes great wines for other producers like Open Claim. His new wines are complete with a beginning, middle and end. Check out the gorgeous 2018 Tendril Pretender’ White Pinot Noir (OB, 95) which is amongst the finest wines of its kind. The nuance in this wine is just insanely good. I love the has an incredible mouthfeel and vibrant acidity, as this delicious wine is showing really good range right now. Even better is the 2017 Tendril ‘Tightrope’ Pinot Noir (OB, 94) which is rich and viscous, and is absolutely singing now at the five year mark. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.tendrilwines.com Here are the seriously good new wines by Tony Rynders and Tendril.

2018 Tendril ‘Enchanter’ Chardonnay- The 2018 ‘Enchanter’ Chardonnay spent more than fifteen months in mostly neutral oak barrels before bottling. This comes off absolutely seamless on the mouth, with Meyer lemon zest dusted sourdough bread, cloves, peat moss and white rose water tones on the palate. Complex and delicious to consume now, this has both the weight and finesse to cellar well for another eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 94

2018 Tendril ‘Pretender’ White Pinot Noir- One of the great white pinot noirs that you will taste, the 2018 ‘Pretender’ offers honeysuckle and white peach aromas with lighter red raspberry and flinty accents on the nose. The palate is soft and provides a seamless drinking experience, with a wonderful veil of salinity that runs through the core of the wine. With more air macadamia nut and forest floor accents shape the palate, showing serious weight and verve. Finishing very long, this is generous, intense wine that is best enjoyed at a warmer temperature. Drink 2022-2034- 95

2017 Tendril ‘Tightrope’ Pinot Noir- A barrel selection wine, the 2017 ‘Tightrope’ is a thrilling new Pinot Noir by Tony Rynders that seen considerable bottle age. Showing a deep core, this dazzles once on the nose with red rose petals and potpourri alongside ripe guava and teaberry accents. The palate is deep and concentrated with a silky texture and wonderful sense of weight without coming off as heavy. Already beautifully evolved, and starting to show some black truffle and forest floor tertiary elements, enjoy the incredible 2017 ‘Tightrope’ over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 95

2017 Tendril ‘Extrovert’ Pinot Noir- The really good 2017 ‘Extrovert’ received 100% whole cluster fermentation and is Tony Rynders’s boldest expression of Pinot Noir. Ripe black fruits collide with copious minerals and shades of tar, anise and baking spices on the palate. With good viscosity and finesse, and a soft mouthfeel, this is only starting to hit its stride and can easily go for another fifteen years. Drink 2022-2036- 94

Ram's Gate

Founded back in 2011, Ram’s Gate is perched on a hillside where the San Francisco Bay meets the edges of Napa and Sonoma counties. It is a gorgeous spot that is a must visit if you have never been. I have really enjoyed these wines from the range of sites that they source from including the famed ‘Hyde’ and ‘Gap’s Crown’ Vineyards.

Winemaker Joe Nielsen spent ten years at Donelan Family Wines in Santa Rosa before becoming Director of Winemaking at Ram’s Gate in 2018. He loves making wines from his special estate vineyard that is extemely windy and produces very small, concentrated berries. The new wines come from the exciting 2019 vintage, which produced some world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Don’t miss the new 2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Estate’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which has tons of viscosity and wonderful salty tones. Just as good is the salty and savory 2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Gap’s Crown Viney. Learn more about this great estate at https://ramsgatewinery.com Here are the great new wines by Ram’s Gate.

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Cellar Note’ Chardonnay- The 2019 ‘Cellar Note’ was sourced from the Sonoma Coast AVA, and comes off wonderfully salty and tangy with salted melon, lemon rind and sourdough bread flavors. Medium to full-bodied, with plenty of finesse, this beautiful wine is shining brightly in its youth and will produce drinking enjoyment over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 92

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- The 2019 ‘Estate’ Chardonnay is a gorgeous new effort that is mostly Wente clonal selection, with a smaller portion of Robert Young clone. Very round and soft in the mouth, this delivers rich buttercream and melon fruit flavor alongside a bright core of acidity and wonderful length. Sturdy and rich, this will cellar well for another eight plus years. Drink 2022-2030- 93

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The brilliant new 2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Gap’s Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir saw a small portion of whole cluster fermentation as this was stored in nearly all neutral oak (roughly 30% new) before bottling. Verry salty and savoy, this unveils ripe red cherry and loganberry tones that combine with orange zest and suggestions of saline drenched white rose water. Complex and highly gratifying to consume in its youth, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next ten plus years. Drink 2022-2033- 93

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘El Diablo Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from this site located in the Russian River Valley, the 2019 ‘El Diablo Vineyard’ Pinot Noir offers salty soils and peat moss tones on the nose, with dark current accents. The palate is very soft and earthy with bright acidity and lovely range from the red and dark fruits as well as the citrus ember accents. Drink 2022-2033- 93

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- The 2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir is a gorgeous new bottling that is sourced from four different lots on the estate vineyard. Cola, sassafras and ripe cranberry tones combine with nutmeg and kumquat zest on the palate. With good depth and intensity, and a lengthy finish, this beautiful Pinot Noir is already nicely evolved and will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2022-2033- 93

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Grenache Syrah’ Red Wine- Dark once in the glass, this Sonoma Coast blend comes off very salty, smoky and savory once on the mouth. Black olives, scorched earth and smoked brisket flavor all meld together nicely with a generous core of dark fruits. Novel and delightful to savor now, try this with some top class BBQ. Drink 2022-2032- 92

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Syrah- This Carneros site has been making some delicious, under the radar, Syrah for many years. This 2019 edition offers white pepper dusted charcuterie, green olives and bacon fat aromatics with citrus blossom that all dazzle in the glass. The palate is fresh and lithe with great tension that races through the core of boysenberry cordial, tar and shades of coffee grounds. Drink 2022-2034- 93

2019 Ram’s Gate ‘Berler Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- This single vineyard site is set at 1,600 feet in the northern portion of the Sonoma Valley. Anise, tar and mocha tones combine with rich kirsch notes on the palate. With more air salty and tilled soil undertones follow suit. Forward and delicious, consume this great new Cabernet Sauvignon over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 92

Baer Winery

Before I was a full time wine critic I have fond memories of visiting Baer Winery in Woodinville on the weekends and tasting their new wines. Sometimes Lisa would be there to chat about the vintages and what they had been doing at this small, exceptional, family-run winery. I have many of these wines in my cellar and have enjoyed opening the 2012s and 2013s over the past year — wines that are drinking exceptionally well right now. Baer was founded in 2000 by Lance Baer. Lance was known for crafting exceptional red wines as many of his wines were met with critical acclaim. 

Erica Orr took over this program many years back and originally got her start in the wine industry back in 1998, working her first harvest with eminent winemaker Cathy Corison in the Napa Valley. She immediately caught the wine bug and enrolled in the enology master’s degree program at UC Davis where she completed her master’s degree in 2003. Erica also has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from UC Berkeley and three years of research experience as a biochemistry lab technician for 2009 Nobel Laureate Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn at UC San Francisco. 

Her background in chemistry gives her a very precise, scientific winemaking style that I have noticed over the years. She crafts wines that show serious finesse as her reds deftly show off the potential of the Stillwater Creek Vineyard which is located in the Royal Slope AVA.

I adored her 2018 Baer ‘Star’ Merlot (OB, 93) which is soft, elegant and has gobs of finesse, with good flavor density. This one has wonderful aging potential. Just as good is their flat out delicious 2018 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine (OB, 93) which is wonderfully herbal and captures the art of blending. Learn more about this great Woodinville winery at at baerwinery.com Here are the great new releases by Baer

2018 Baer ‘Star’ Merlot- The 100% varietal, 2018 ‘Star’ comes entirely from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard and spent 21 months in only 22% new French oak prior to bottling. Very smooth, with red plum, loganberry and baking spice flavors, this shows good viscosity and length. Fresh and lithe, enjoy this outstanding Merlot bottling over the next twelve plus years. Drink 2022-2035- 93

2018 Baer ‘Callisto’ Red Wine- Sourced entirely from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard, the 2018 ‘Callisto’ blends 41% Syrah with 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and the remainder Petit Verdot. Stored in barrel for 18 months, this unveils aromas of black tea, blackberry compote and violet rose petals that all meld in the glass. The palate is soft and refined with a silky mouthfeel that makes this delicious wine glide throughout the drinking experience. Dense and chewy, this is delicious wine to consume now and over the next decade. Drink 2022-2032- 93

2018 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine- The 2018 ‘Ursa’ is a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc with 22% Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. This was aged for 21 months in roughly 50% new French oak barrels before bottling and unveils lovely bay leaf and red bell pepper aromatics from the Cabernet Franc. Vey soft and refined on the mouth, light tannins frame a core of chocolate cake, garrigue and rich dark fruit flavors. Finishing long, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 93

2018 Baer Cabernet Franc- A blend of 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Merlot, this was stored in oak barrels for 21 months before bottling in July 2020. Potpourri and allspice notes combine with heady red and dark fruits aromas on the nose. Beautifully textured, with a soft mouthfeel, this shows both good concentration and length, with a core of herbal-infused red and dark fruits, with cocoa powder accents. Drink 2022-2037- 93

2018 Baer Malbec- Also sourced from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA,  this was aged for 21 months in only 20% French oak prior to bottling. Very inky once in the glass, this unveils black currant cordial, creme de violette and Turkish coffee aromas that bring you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The palate is concentrated and shows off a lush mouthfeel, as this is loaded full of intense dark and blue fruit flavors. Enjoy this fantastic wine by Erica Orr over the next ten plus years. Drink 2022-2035- 93

2018 Baer ‘Arctos’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2018 ‘Arctos’ is a delicious and polished effort by Erica Orr that spent 21 months in a combination of Taransaud, Atelier and Sylvain oak barrels prior to bottling. Very smooth upon entry, this shows off black licorice, cigar ash and boysenberry preserve flavors alongside a great veil of tension and light dusting of salinity. Enjoy this refined style of Cabernet Sauvignon over the next twelve to fifteen years. Drink 2022-2035- 93

Passing Time

A famed Woodinville house started by NFL legends Dan Marino, Damon Huard and their business partners, Passing Time utilizes the talents of winemaker Chris Peterson. Damon and Dan Marino had talking about owning a winery together for many years when they played together with the Miami Dolphins. They finally got the nerve to start a winery in Damon’s backyard and they have been crafting some seriously good Cabernet wines since their first release with the 2012 vintage. More recently they have been making some excellent Washington Chardonnay.

These new wines utilize fruit form the Evergreen Vineyard in the Ancient Lakes AVA. I loved the new Chardonnay wines which were made by eminent Washington winemaker Kendall Mix. The 2020  Passing The Time Chardonnay (OB, 92) is a steal at 30 dollars retail and is more mineral-driven and fresh with a long finish. Even better is the glorious 2020 Passing Time Chardonnay (OB, 94) which is big, rich and viscous with a great mouthfeel and exceptionally long finish.  Learn more about this fantastic boutique winery at http://www.passingtime.com Here are my reviews of the new Passing Time Chardonnay wines.

2020 Passing The Time Chardonnay- The outstanding value 2020 Passing The Time Chardonnay comes mostly from the Evergreen Vineyard (75%) in the Ancient Lakes AVA. Stored in 20% French oak with the remainder stainless steel aging, this opens with pear and green melon aromas alongside baking spice spiked sourdough bread accents on the nose. The palate is bright and beautifully textured with good viscosity and length. At $30.00 retail this is one to grab by the case. Drink 2022-2028-92

2020 Passing Time Chardonnay- The 2020 Passing Time Chardonnay is a glorious new wine by this Woodinville house that was mainly sourced from the Evergreen Vineyard (77%).  Stored in an equal combination of neutral French oak barrels and stainless steel, this opens with nectarine and starfruit aromatics alongside roasted hazelnut and saline drenched Japanese pear. The palate has a great veil of salinity that runs through the core of beautiful orchard and citrus fruits, with buttercream accents. Finishing very long, this comes off weightless and refined, as the 2020 Passing Time Chardonnay will cellar well or another eight to ten years, picking up nutty and earthy tones as it lies in the cellar. Only 100 cases produced. Drink 2022-2030- 94

Hors Catégorie

Today we share one of the most unique wines produced in North America. Loosely translated to ‘beyond categorization’ Hors Catégorie is a magnificent expression of terroir in a bottle — an enigmatic Syrah that has insanely good aromatic and flavor range. 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. The last time there I was sweating running up the hill with Christophe. The views from the top are unbelievably beautiful.

The vineyard has incredibly tight spacing and Syrah clusters are cropped at less than a ton an acre. The terroir was largely stony with thick broken basalt sprinkled everywhere. When you are there you can truly feel the struggle of the vines in this stony terroir.

A few weeks ago I had the chance to taste the new wine from the 2019 vintage. This wine is more tension-filled than the decadent 2018 bottling. It is a magnificent expression of new world Syrah that comes off very Northern Rhone. The 2019 Hors Catégorie Syrah (OB, 99) is one of the great wines that I have tasted over the past year. I can’t help but think how magical this wine would be with a juicy steak. I think you will be blown away when you taste this gem. Learn more about this marvelous Syrah at https://horscategorievineyards.com/horscategorievineyards/ Here is the new review for the incredible 2019 Hors Catégorie Syrah. 

2019 Hors Catégorie Syrah- The very nervy and stony 2019 Hors Catégorie Syrah is a astounding achievement in this somewhat challenging vintage. 100% Syrah, this exudes class with bulls blood and iodine tones alongside wet gravel and Mandarin orange rind with beautiful red florals on the nose. The palate is astonishingly good, coming off very weightless and full of minerality. Ripe black currants, iodine and huckleberry tones mingle well with garrigue notes and stony minerals on the palate. Flirting with perfection, this unbelievable effort will shine on for another decade or more. Drink 2022-2037- 99

Bledsoe | McDaniels

A very exciting project by NFL Legend Drew Bledsoe and superstar winemaker, Josh McDaniels, Bledsoe-McDaniels is a new Oregon wine project from this Walla Walla mainstay. For many years McDaniels wanted to make Oregon Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In the past year there was a really exciting development with their purchasing of a new vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills which they have named their estate ‘Coulee Vineyard.’

This site has 29 acres planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, set on Saum-Parrett, Woodburn soils.

The new wines by McDaniels were beautiful across the board. I love the new 2021 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay (OB, 94) which is fresh and very inviting with a seamless texture. Even better is the stunning 2019 Bledsoe-McDaniels ‘Lefore Vineyard’ Syrah (OB, 95) which shows incredible flavor and aroma range, from this stony site in the Walla Walla Rocks District. You must join the allocation list to purchase the wines. Learn more about this outstanding winery project at http://bledsoemcdaniels.com/#top Here are the beautiful new wines by Bledsoe-McDaniels.

2021 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay- The outstanding 2021 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay offers lemon zest dusted brioche aromas alongside orange blossom and toasted hazelnuts. The palate is very soft and round with layers of toasty oak, white rose water and buttered sourdough bread. Finishing very long this beautiful wine will satisfy for at least another decade. Drink 2022-2032- 94

2019 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- This is now the second time in six months that I have tasted this beautiful wine which was crafted from old vine Pommard Clone Pinot Noir from the Ridgecrest Vineyard as well as the Ellis Estate Vineyard. The aromas are mesmerizing with black tea and wild blackberry notes alongside earthy undertones. Soft and refined on the mouth, this shows plenty of dazzling acidity alongside ripe red and dark fruits with kumquat zest flavors. Enjoy this beauty over the next fifteen years.Drink 2022-2037- 95

2019 Bledsoe | McDaniels ‘Lefore Vineyards’ Syrah- This is another second run through for me on this outstanding Rocks Syrah which was sourced from the ‘LeFore Vineyard.’ This was stored in about 20% new French oak puncheons, the wine offers a cornucopia of aromas from Umami and Nori notes alongside fresh Satsuma orange zest, bacon fat, red cherry candy and suggestions of potpourri. Very smooth on the attack, this effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Seamless and sensuous in its youth, enjoy this already beautifully evolved wine over the next eight years.  Drink 2022-2030- 95

Mollydooker

I fondly recall the massive buzz when Mollydooker started back in 2005. These wines were immediately met with critical praise but I hadn’t had the chance to try them quite yet. In a very short amount of time Sarah and Sparky Marquis created one of the iconic wine brands of Australia. Their first wine, the 2005 ‘Carnival of Love’ Shiraz was immediately awarded 99 points by Robert Parker and was sold out in five days. The following year, their Velvet Glove Shiraz became their fifth wine to be awarded 99 points by The Wine Advocate and the Carnival of Love has since been listed in Wine Spectator’s ‘Top Ten wines in the World’ three times. This was serious success very quickly.

The first time I tasted these wines was back with their 2007 vintage. I was amazed with the viscosity and acidity intact in the wines. Even in tough vintages like 2011 these wines seemed to thrive and display considerable richness. In 2017 Sarah took sole control of the winery and now has her son, Luke, the ‘Blue Eyed Boy’ is involved in the winery as well as he leads global sales. I sat down with Sarah a few years ago for an exciting interview.

The 2020 vintage in South Australia was one that had low yields but was incredible in quality for rich red varities. In many cases yields were down 50% or more. A very hot December led to cooler temperatures in January and February which slowed down berry development.

I adored the new Mollydooker lineup. Don’t miss out on the thrilling 2020 Mollydooker ‘Carnival of Love’ Shiraz (OB, 96) which is deep and concentrated with serious aging potential. One of the great wines I have tasted the past year is the downright thrilling  2019 Mollydooker ‘Velvet Glove’ Shiraz (OB, 99) which flirts with perfection and is utterly seamless, silky Shiraz. Learn more about this famed South Australian winery at https://www.mollydookerwines.com.au/ Here are the beautiful new wines by Mollydooker.

2021 Mollydooker ‘The Violinist’ Verdelho- Fresh and lithe, the 2021 ‘The Violinist’ offers pear, lime and kiwi flavors alongside a really great sense of mouthfeel. Delicious to savor now, enjoy over the next several years. Drink 2022-2025- 91

2020 Mollydooker ‘The Scooter’ Merlot- Very ripe and concentrated, the 2020 ‘The Scooter’ Merlot shows off plum and Hoisin sauce on the nose, with fresh blackberries. The palate is soft and inviting with a smooth texture and good length, delivering rich black fruits with cocoa powder accents. Drink now. Drink 2022-2026- 90

2020 Mollydooker ‘Two Left Feet’ Red Wine- A blend of Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 ‘Two Left Feet’ delivers dark currant, cigar box, and black cherry flavors with plenty of bright acidity. Rich, and showing good length on the mouth, this is delicious wine to consume over the next five plus years. Drink 2022-2027- 91

2020 Mollydooer ‘The Maitre D’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Very smooth upon entry, the 2020 ‘The Maitre D’ exudes class with its red bell pepper and red floral tones alongside blackberry compote, black licorice and allspice notes. Medium to full-bodied, this is delicious wine to consume right now. Drink 2022-2027- 92

2020 Mollydooker ‘The Boxer’ Shiraz- Very inky once in the glass, the delicious 2020 ‘The Boxer’ Shiraz starts off with tar and scorched earthy notes alongside Black Forest Cake on the nose. The palate is luxurious and inviting once on the mouth, with refined tannins and a loaded core of dark fruit and dark chocolate flavors. Delicious to consume now, enjoy over the next six years. Drink 2022-2028- 92

2020 Mollydooker ‘Gigglepot’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2020 Mollydooker ‘Gigglepot’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a sensational new wine that was sourced from the Rivers Lane and McLaren Vale Vineyards. Grapes for this wine were picked March 27th, as this was aged in mostly American oak (81%) prior to bottling. Sandalwood and black currant cordial fill the nose, with suggestions of bay leaf and black rose petals that all sing in unison. The palate is beautifully balanced, with good weight and bright acidity. Rich dark fruits and chocolate cake tones combine with a seamless texture on the palate. This comes off very refined and weightless, as this beautiful wine will continue to drink well over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 93

2020 Mollydooker ‘Blue Eyed Boy’ Shiraz- Another great bottling of this wine, the 2020 Mollydooker ‘Blue Eyed Boy’ Shiraz was stored in 100% new American oak (53% new) and was sourced from a range of vineyards including Molydooker Home and Coppermine Road Vineyards. Standing at a heady 16.5% alcohol, this shows beautiful weight and viscosity once on the mouth. Velvety tannins frame a core of creme de violette, black currants, espresso grounds and dark chocolate shavings, with light garrigue notes. Beautiful to savor now, enjoy this outstanding 2020 Shiraz over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 94

2020 Mollydooker ‘Enchanted Path’ Red Wine- The gorgeous 2020 Mollydooker ‘Enchanted Path’ Red Wine is a blend of 70% Shiraz and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon that was sourced from the Gateway and Rivers Lane vineyards in McLaren Vale. Stored in 94% American and 6% French oak, (86% new), this opens with beautiful red and dark florals, woven together with crushed mint and suggestions of blueberry cobbler. The palate is well-structured with beautiful finesse and concentrated black and blue fruit flavor with chocolate fudge tones. Gorgeous in its heady youth, give this about an hour of air if consuming now. Drink 2022-2034- 95

2020 Mollydooker ‘Carnival of Love’ Shiraz- The seriously good 2020 Mollydooker ‘Carnival of Love’ Shiraz is a masterful rendition of this wine from this famed McClaren Vale house. Aged in 100% new American oak, this beautiful wine exudes class with its rich huckleberry compote, tar, black currant jelly and white pepper tones, showing emphatic range. The feeling of weight is gorgeous and while high alcohol (15.5%) the bright acidity brilliantly holds everything together. Be sure to give this at least an hour in the decanter if enjoying now. Drink 2022-2036- 96

2019 Mollydooker ‘Velvet Glove’ Shiraz- A mesmerizing wine that brings you back to the glass for more hedonistic enjoyment, the 2019 Mollydooker ‘Velvet Glove’ Shiraz is one of the great wines of its kind. Entirely sourced from the Gateway Vineyard in McLaren Vale, the wine was fermented and stored in 100% American oak (100% new) before bottling. Blueberry pie and loganberry preserve aromas combine with scorched earth, and fresh menthol notes on the nose. While obviously very big, this is weightless once on the attack. The palate is extremely concentrated, as the glass-staining color would suggest. Layers of intense black and blue fruits collide with copious minerals and a pillowy texture on the palate. If enjoying in its scintillating youth, be sure to give this at least an hour in the decanter. 600 bottles imported to the United States. Drink 2022-2038- 99

Alexana

Today we share a brilliant producer in the Willamette Valley, Alexana. This winey has been a pillar of consistency over the past five plus years. Founded many years back by Dr. Madaiah Revana, a famed cardiologist. Named after Dr. Revana’s daughter,  Alexana has a stunning setting in the Red Hills AVA. The winery utilizes both gravity flow and Gold LEED certification. These are wines made by the talented Bryan Weil who has served as head winemaker and has formerly worked Domaine Serene before heading back to Oregon State University, where in 2008 he graduated with a degree in Enology and Viticulture. Bryan then served as assistant winemaker at Hogue Cellars in Prosser, Washington, prior to being named Alexana winemaker in in 2012.

Alexana did a very good job in 2020 despite the issues with smoke. I love the 2020 Alexana ‘Signature’ Pinot Noir (OB, 91) which shows wonderful depth and verve — and truly is one of the best wines from this vintage that I have tasted. Don’t miss out on the gorgeous new 2019 Alexana ‘Signature’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is downright awesome considering the price, showing amazing range and texture. This new lineup has some awesome values and many new wines are priced at or under 50 dollars. Learn more about this outstanding Oregon winery at http://www.alexanawinery.com Here are the great new release wines by Alexana. 

2021 Alexana Rose- Made from Pinot Noir grapes, this pale-colored Rose offers lemon blossom, cantaloupe and bright red fruits aromatically, with stony undertones. The palate is fresh and vibrant with plenty of mouth-watering acidity and beautiful guava, red currant and citrus zest flavors. Beautifully textured, enjoy this fantastic new Rose over the next five years. Drink 2022-2027- 92

2021 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Pinot Gris- The very fresh 2021 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Pinot Gris was whole cluster pressed and then received considerable weekly battonage prior to bottling. Texturally round and emphatic, this offers generous kiwi, pink grapefruit and honeydew melon flavors with nutty and stony undertones. Utterly fabulous, this shows the weight and tension to age well for another seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 93

2019 Alexana ‘Signature’ Chardonnay- The deep and concentrated 2019 Alexana ‘Signature’ Chardonnay was stored for 11 months in a combination of stainless steel barrel and oak barrel before bottling. The nose comes off insanely good with buttered brioche, melon fruits and lemon meringue tones that all mingle in the glass. The palate has beautiful richness with baking spice dusted pastry, lemon rind, and stony minerals, with nutty and earthy accents. Round and plump on the mouth, this beautiful wine will shine on for another decade. Drink 2022-2032- 93

2019 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Chardonnay- The outstanding 2019 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Chardonnay was mainly sourced from the Dundee Hills AVA (54%), as this was aged in oak barrels for ten months before bottling. Ripe mango, melon and lemon zest tones all collide on the palate, with serious weight and length. Outstanding to enjoy now, this will cellar gracefully over the next decade, picking up earthy and nutty tones as it evolves. Drink 2022-2032- 92

2019 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Pinot Noir- Densely colored in the glass, the 2019 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Pinot Noir was mainly soured from the Revana Vineyard (54%) as well as small portions from the Fennwoodm Aegrina, Rain Dance, Zena Crown, Foothills and Crawford Beck Vineyards. Toasty oak and red currants mingle well with bright strawberry and menthol undercurrents on the nose. The palate is soft and generous with a beautiful texture and rich core of red fruit flavors with freshly tilled soils and wild mushroom accents. Gorgeous to consume now, give this an hour of air if enjoying over the next few years. Drink 2022-2034- 92

2019 Alexana ‘Pommard’ Pinot Noir- The 2019 ‘Pommard’ was sourced from the Revana Vineyard in the Dundee Hills AVA, as this saw ten months of oak barrel aging (23% new) before bottling. Medium-bodied, with plenty of finesse, this unveils ripe red cherry with rose water, orange rind and damp earth flavors. Forward and juicy, this is beautiful wine to consume right now — and will cellar well for another decade or more. Drink 2022-2034- 92

2019 Alexana ‘Signature’ Pinot Noir- The glorious 2019 ‘Signature’ Pinot Noir is a seriously good new wine by Bryan Weil. Once on the nose this exudes class with its rich combination of red and dark fruits alongside peat moss and black truffle undertones. The palate is soft, lithe and beautifully textured, as this seamlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. Finishing very long, this classy is already nicely evolved and is sure to satisfy for at least another decade. Drink 2022-2034- 93

2019 Alexana ‘Block 8-Clone 777’ Pinot Noir- Aged in 50% new French oak, this wine utilizing clonal selection 777 was entirely sourced from the Revana Vineyard. The palate is dense, polished and plush, with a seamless sense of texture. Ripe dark currant, roasted figs and red raspberry flavors collide with garrigue and stony notes on the palate. Finishing long, this broad-shouldered and gratifying 2019 Pinot Noir surely has another fifteen plus years ahead of it. Drink 2022-2036- 94

2019 Alexana ‘Fennwood Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, the ‘Fennwood Vineyard’ Pinot Noir unveils black tea and red florals that mingle with citrus embers aromatically. The palate unveils a rich core of red fruits alongside a bright beam of tension and salty undertones. Complex and delicious to savor now, enjoy this brilliant new wine over the next ten plus years. Drink 2022-2034- 93

2019 Alexana ‘Zena Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from one of the storied sites in the Eola-Amity Hills, the 2019 ‘Zena Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir was aged in 42% new French oak and utilizes mainly clonal selection 777 vines. This is a big, bold and beautiful expression of Oregon Pinot Noir with a brilliant melange of red and dark fruits. With more air shades of white truffle, cigar box and peat moss tones all combine and add depth and complexity. Really good to enjoy right now, this has at least fifteen yeas in front of it. Drink 2022-2037-  94

2019 Alexana ‘Crawford Beck Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Aged in 33% new French oak, the 2019 Alexana ‘Crawford Beck Vineyard’ Pinot Noir unveils pretty red rose petal tones with Mandarin orange rind and suggestions of guava on the nose. The palate has good power with gobs of crunchy red fruits alongside tangerine peel and stony and salty undercurrents. Really good now enjoy this beautiful and fresh style of Pinot Noir over the next twelve plus years. Drink 2022-2034- 93

2020 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2020 Alexana ‘Terroir Series’ Pinot Noir comes fom the Revana, Fennwood, Crawford Beck and Zena Crown Vineyards. Stored in 25% new French oak, this offers flint, cranberry and freshly tilled soils on the nose. The palate is soft and inviting with a silky texture and bright range of red fruit flavors. Drink over the next several years. Drink 2022-2025- 90

2020 Alexana ‘Signature’ Pinot Noir- The great new 2020 Alexana ‘Signature’ Pinot Noir was mostly stored in neutral oak prior to bottling. Very polished once on the mouth, this offers peat moss undertones that combine with rich red and dark fruit flavors on the palate. Considering the vintage, this is a standout Pinot Noir that is best to enjoy now and over the next four years, Drink 2022-2026- 91

2020 Alexana ‘Revana Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2020 Alexana ‘Revana Vineyard’ Pinot Noir offers smoldering stones, Bing cherry and red raspberry preserve flavors that mingle well with serious finesse. Enjoy now. Drink 2022-2026- 90

2019 Alexana ‘Fenwood Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The Fenwood Vineyad is located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA and is set on ancient marine sedimentary soils. This 2019 Pinot Noir delivers a hearty core of red and dark fruits with pipe tobacco, worn leather and freshly tilled salty soils giving this a very Barolo meets Oregon feel. Light tannins frame everything beautifully, as this is best consumed over the next ten to twelve years. Drink 2022-2034- 93

La Rata

Today we share one of the most unique wines made in North America. Originally a trial project,  Elizabeth Bourcier’s La Rata Red Wine has become one of the outstanding cult wines out of the Pacific Northwest. Originally initially inspired by the insanely good Clos Erasmus wines of the Priorat region, Elizabeth made the bold decision blend both Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon together, since they wines tend to ripen at the similar times on the stony terroir of Milton-Freewater. Elizabeth chose to use Grenache from Armada Vineyard and Cabernet Sauvignon from En Cerise Vineyard. Now she has added a touch of Syrah to the equation. The wine was named “The Rat” and then Spanglish-cized: ‘La Rata’. The name ‘La Rata’ also connects with Elizabeth, as her zodiac sign which is the rat. This truly novel wine retails for under 100 dollars. 

The 2019 La Rata (OB, 96) remains very true to the vintage. It is done in a more minerality-based style than the 2019, slightly more akin to the gorgeous 2017 bottling. This 2019 edition shows insanely good finesse and head-turning flavor range.  Learn more at http://laratawines.com/wines.html Here is my review of the thrilling 2019 La Rata Red Wine by Elizabeth Bourcier of Cayuse Vineyards.

2019 La Rata Red Wine- Polished and lithe, the 2019 La Rata Red Wine is done in the slightly leaner, more mineral-driven style than the 2018 bottling. The aromatic range is downright thrilling with oyster sauce, white pepper dusted bacon, red cherry candy, green olives and shades of black truffle crudo. On the mouth this comes off as very weightless and soft, as the beautiful, pillowy texture captivates. Very elegant, nuanced and refined, the 2019 La Rata is already gorgeous Priorat-inspired wine to consume now and will cellar well for another eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 96

Kosta Browne

One of the famed California producers of Pinot Noir, Kosta Browne began with Dan Kosta and Michael Browne who started out working at a local restaurant in 1997. Short on funds, Michael developed relationships with key growers in Northern California, while Dan, along with the help of a third partner, Chris Costello, worked to market and sell the wines. In 2011 Kosta Browne jumped on the world stage as they were named Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of the Year with their 2009 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir.

I’ve loved these wines over the years and the new outstanding releases come from the highly challenging 2020 vintage. These are clean wines without any smoke impact. Take your time with the complex and delicious 2020 Kosta Browne ‘One-Sixteen’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which shows a soft texture and really good range. Even better is the terroir-driven 2020 Kosta Browne ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Pinot Noir (OB, 94) which has plenty of salty red fruits with stony undercurrents. All Pinots are $115.00 SRP. Learn more about this outstanding winery at kostabrowne.com and here are my reviews of the new Kosta Browne wines.

2020 Kosta Browne ‘One-Sixteen’ Chardonnay- Winemaker Julien Howsepian has sourced this wine from a range of famed Russian River sites including the Ritchie and Keefer Ranch Vineyards. Nectarine and green apple notes combine with baking spice dusted sourdough bread on the nose. The palate is ripe and plump with a seamless texture and wonderful length. The lingering mineral and brioche laced finish really entices, as this beautiful wine is drinking marvelously now and will continue to do so over the next decade. Drink 2022-2032- 93

2020 Kosta Browne ‘Sonoma Coast’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from mainly the Gap’s Crown Vineyard, this delicious new Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir was stored for fifteen months in 34% new French oak before bottling. Salted red fruits and kumquat zest combine with toasty oak tones on the palate. Finishing very long, this is delicious, beautifully-textured Pinot Noir that is already nicely evolved. Drink 2022-2032- 93

2020 Kosta Browne ‘Russian River Valley’ Pinot Noir- The 2020 Kosta Browne ‘Russian River Valley’ Pinot Noir is a gorgeous new bottling that was stored in 32% new French oak for fifteen months before bottling. Sassafras and cola tones mingle well with cran-cherry and cloves on the nose. The palate is very refined and seamless with generous weight and a silky texture. Finishing very long, this gorgeous new bottling will satisfy over the next ten years or more. Drink 2022-2034- 94

2020 Kosta Browne ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Pinot Noir- Harvest for this Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir  came two weeks earlier than normal as this was aged in a small part American oak and 47% new French oak prior to bottling. Once on the mouth, the soft texture entices. Salty cran-raspberry and loganberry tones combine with citrus zest, and diatomaceous earth undertones on the palate.  This is very elegant, terroir-driven Pinot Noir that is best consumed over the next ten plus years. Drink 2022-2033- 94

2020 Kosta Browne ‘Anderson Valley’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2020 Kosta Browne ‘Anderson Valley’ Pinot Noir spent fifteen months in 38% new French oak before bottling, as this is the first year this wine has been sourced from The Narrows and Confluence Vineyards. The wine is soft and generous with plenty of peat moss and forest floor tones on the palate, with huckleberry and black cherry compote. Gorgeous to consume now, enjoy over the next ten to twelve years. Drink 2022-2034- 94

Argyle

One of the founding wineries for Oregon Sparkling Wine, Argyle is located in the heart of Dundee, Oregon, right off Highway 99. I get nostalgic when I visit the winery and I was there earlier in the spring for a series of great tastings. It has been now 20 years since I first visited this Oregon house.

The talented Nate Klostermann led our spring tasting seminar — a sparkling wine blending trial. He has been crafting incredible wines since taking over for Oregon wine legend Rollin Soles. Nate does a killer job with his still wines and I adored the new 2021 Argyle Rose (OB, 91) which is lithe and beautifully textured with very pretty red fruits. Even better is the gorgeous 2021 Argyle ‘Nuthouse’ Riesling (OB, 93) which is round and generous with serious weight and delicious crisp flavors. All of these wines are under 30 dollars. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.argylewinery.com Here are the outstanding new still wine releases by Argyle.

2021 Argyle ‘Willamette Valley’ Rose- The 2021 Argyle ‘Willamette Valley’ Rose was sourced from the Knudsen, Lone Start and Spirit Hill Vineyards, as this was mostly aged in stainless steel prior to bottling. Tart marionberry, cran-cherry and tobacco notes mingle well with plenty of weight and freshness on the palate. Enjoy this outstanding Rose over the next five plus years. Drink 2022-2027- 91

2021 Argyle ‘Nuthouse’ Riesling- Stored in neutral oak barrels, the vibrant 2021 ‘Nuthouse’ Riesling comes from the Lone Star Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Made in the Trocken style, this shows sensational texture and weight, as this bone-dry bottling delivers Japanese pear, ginger, and white peach flavors alongside stony minerals. The tension and weight really drives this beautiful Riesling that will cellar well over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 93

2020 Argyle ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay-The very fresh 2020 Argyle ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay comes from the Lone Star and Spirit Hill VIneyards, as this was stored in 15% new French oak for 12 months prior to bottling. Pear and walnut tones combine with green apple on the palate. Enjoy now. Drink 2022-2024- 90

Daou Vineyards

Daou is a wonderful tale of the American Dream. It is a tale that started in Lebanon, back in 1956, as Joseph and Marie Daou married after a whirlwind romance. Years passed and the Daou family grew, as Joseph transformed his father’s small carpentry business, DAOU and Sons, into one of the most successful furnishing companies in the entire Middle East. Following the Lebanese Civil War, the family had to move to France and start all over. Living in Cannes in the south of France Joseph developed a passion for wine.

The sons, Georges and Daniel, followed in their family’s entrepreneurial footsteps and started their own company, DAOU Systems, a networking technology company that would revolutionize hospital computer systems. This company went public and was sold in 1998. Daniel had become a passionate garage winemaker, reading every book he could find on wine and he saw the potential for making great Cabernet Sauvignon in Paso Robles. The brothers are now proprietors of Daou Vineyards, with Daniel serving as winemaker.

For years I have admired these beautiful wines, particularly their top Cabernet bottling, Soul of A Lion (SRP $170.00). I love the new 2020 Daou ‘Discovery Collection’ Rose (OB, 91) which is fresh and beautifully textured wine. I love the new 2019 Daou ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 94) showing great viscosity and rich dark and blue fruit flavors. These wines are reasonably priced, under 100 dollars. Learn more about these outstanding wines at daouvineyards.com and here are my new reviews of the Daou Vineyards wines.

2020 Daou ‘Discovery Collection’ Rose- A blend of 95% Grenache Noir and 5% Sauvignon Blanc, this offers a smooth texture with white peach, Japanese pear and suggestions of sweetened gooseberry on the palate. Really good now, enjoy over the next five plus years. Drink 2022-2027- 91

2019 Daou ‘Sequentis Reserve’ Merlot- Rich kirsch cordial notes combine with baking spices, sweet pipe tobacco and mochaa on the palate. Forward and juicy, with good acidity and light tannins, drink now and over the next seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 91

2019 Daou ‘Bodyguard’ Red WIne- The 2019 ‘Bodyguard’ is a blend of 58% Petit Verdot with the remainder 42% Petite Sirah. The juicy blue fruits from the Petite Sirah are shining brightly with dried herbs, chocolate cake and espresso grounds. Delightful in its youth, this is glorious wine to consume over the next seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 92

2019 Daou ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2019 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a generous and deep wine by Daou. Smooth on the mouth, the silky texture really drives this beautiful wine that shows power and precision. The palate is refined and elegant, as this finishes very long with black currants, Turkish coffee and blueberry pie flavors. Enjoy this outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 94

Chosen Family Wines

Today we share one of the exciting new wine projects out of the Willamette Valley. Chosen Family Wines utilizes the winemaking skills of Chase Renton (L’Angelo Estate winemaker) and was founded by Jacob Gray and former NBA star Channing Frye. More recently NBA all-star Kevin Love has joined the business which is an exciting movement for the brand.

Channing Frye has a longstanding interest in Oregon wine. While playing for the Portland Trailblazers he became more and more enamored by great Oregon Pinot Noir. Last year I had the chance to meet with Jacob and Channing and talk more about their brand. I also had to hear the story about how Channing and the Cleveland Cavs took home Cleveland’s first NBA title in style on the road several years back.

Last year I tried the new lineup of Chosen Family Wines and was really impressed. This years new lineup is even more impressive as it will be exciting to see how this brand grows over the next few years. Check out the awesome new 2020 Chosen Family Wines Chardonnay (OB, 92) which has amazing texture and poise and is an awesome effort considering the challenges of the vintage. Just as good is the finesse-driven and highly focused 2019 Chosen Family Wines Pinot Noir (OB, 92) — a wine that at three years of age is already drinking marvelously.

Learn more about these great new wines at chosenfamilywines.com Here are my reviews of the new Chosen Family wines.

2020 Chosen Family Wines Chardonnay- The 2020 Chosen Family Wines Chardonnay offers a silky texture upon entry. Bright pear and starfruit flavors with baking spice dusted Challah bread all enter the fray. The sense of finesse and weight of the wine really sing. Considering the challenges posed this vintage, this is a stunning effort that will satisfy for at least another five to seven years. Drink 2022-2027- 92

2021 Chosen Family Wines Rose- A brilliant salmon hue, the 2021 Chosen Family Wines Rose delivers seriously good range on the palate, from teaberry and cran-raspberry flavors to salted melon and suggestions of wild mushroom. A standout wine under 25 bucks, enjoy this beautiful new 2021 Rose over the next five years and don’t serve too cold. Drink 2022-2027- 92

2019 Chosen Family Wines Pinot Noir- The 2019 Chosen Family Wines Pinot Noir is a bright and red-fruit driven bottling by winemaker Chase Renton. Silky tannins line a core of pretty guava, pomegranate seed and cran-cherry fruit flavors. Light citrus blossom and volcanic earthy undertones complete this wine that is already drinking beautifully the three year mark. Enjoy this smooth Oregon Pinot Noir over the next decade. Drink 2022-2032- 92

2019 Chosen Family Wines ‘L’Angelo Estate’ Pinot Noir- The ‘L’Angelo Estate Vineyard’ is set in the Dundee Hills, as this great new Pinot Noir opens with a bouquet of volcanic earth and potpourri tones that meld well with salty red fruits and cigar box accents. The palate is soft and refined, with refined tannins that line a core of pretty red fruit and citrus zest flavors. Generous and lithe, this is a terrific effort that is best consumed over the next ten to twelve years. Drink 2022-2034- 93

2020 Chosen Family Wines ‘Fort Ross Seaview Sonoma Coast’ Pinot Noir- The 2020 ‘Fort Ross Seaview’ Pinot Noir brilliantly showcases this cooler and remote location in the Sonoma Coast AVA. The palate is lithe and polished with salted red fruits that combine with suggestions of cola and tangerine peel. Finishing long, this is delicious and terroir-driven Pinot Noir that is best enjoyed over the next seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 93

Cuvaison

Last fall I had the chance to visit Cuvaison, one of the beautiful spots in Carneros, with sweeping views of the Napa Valley. Steve Rogstad has made these wines for many years and has a signature style of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that focuses on poise and texture. I have long admired these wines and fondly recall tasting some impressive early 2000s Chardonnay when I was in graduate school. It is hard to believe that this winery was first founded back in 1969. Then in1979 they acquired 400 acres of highly prized land north of San Pablo Bay in the Los Carneros district of Napa Valley which is a site that is highly influenced by fog and cooler temperatures from the bay.

I love the new wines by Cuvaison which come from the 2020 vintage. These are wines that did not see any smoke influence. As a killer value check out the 2020 Cuvaison ‘Estate’ Chardonnay (OB, 91) which is soft and elegant with classic Carneros tension and salty undertones. The best wine I tried is the 2020 Cuvaison ‘Coeurtina’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is dense and viscous with a good sense of minerality. These wines start at roughly 25 dollars with the top wines topping at 60 dollars. Learn more about this outstanding producer at https://www.cuvaison.com and here are the killer top Chardonnay and Pinot Noir releases by Cuvaison.

2020 Cuvaison ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- The really good 2020 Cuvaison ‘Estate’ Chardonnay was stored for 11 months in 25% new French oak prior to bottling. It comes off very soft and round on the mouth, with buttercream, cardamom dusted Challah bread and nectarine flavors, with good tension. Enjoy over the next five to seven years. Drink 2022-2028- 91

2020 Cuvaison ‘Coeurtina’ Chardonnay- The 2020 ‘Coeurtina’ Chardonnay is a gorgeous new effort by winemaker Steve Rogstad. A play on words, this wine is named after the Cortina clay soil that is found at their estate vineyard. Aged for 5 months in French oak barrels (50% new) this opens with bright Japanese pear and vanilla cream on the nose, with flinty undercurrents. The palate is fresh, soft and beautifully textured, as this seamlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. Finishing very long, this is highly refined stuff that has both the finesse and stuffing to cellar well for another ten years. Drink 2022-2030-93

2020 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay- The 2020 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay is a gorgeous new bottling from this Carneros estate. Stored for 16 months in French oak barriques (50% new), this comes from the most windy part of the vineyard. Baking spices, poached pear and marzipan notes combine on the nose. The palate is very fresh and finesse-driven, with a very lengthy finish. Gorgeous to consume now, this has some excellent aging potential. Drink 2022-2030- 92

Brittan Vineyards

I love the range of terroir in wines produced in the Willamette Valley. There is just something so unique with wines captured from the terroir at the Brittan VIneyard, which is set on fractured basalt. Those stony and salty tones are deftly reflected the wines of the talented Robert Brittan, who was the former winemaker at Stags’ Leap Winery in Napa before moving to Oregon and starting his namesake winery. Robert is a graduate of the UC Davis Viticulture and Enology program and founded Brittan Vineyards in 2004, acquiring a 128-acre hillside property with soils that are a mixture of glacial deposits and volcanic material, with a predominant presence of broken basalt. The volcanic material brings out a terrific stony quality in the Pinot Noirs. In addition to the Pinot Noir, Robert has 4 acres of Chardonnay and 1.5 acres of Syrah have been planted. He makes wines for several top Willamette Valley producers as well.

These are wines that cellar remarkably well due to the stony tension and good richness produced vintage to vintage. I adored the new 2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir (OB, 93) which is loaded with finesse and shows outstanding flavor range. Even better is the scintillating 2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Cygnus Block’ Pinot Noir (OB, 94) which has plenty of stony mineralogy and is loaded with black fruits. Learn more about the great wines of Brittan Vineyards at http://www.brittanvineyards.com Here are the brilliant Pinot Noir releases by Brittan Vineyards.  

2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir-The 2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir is souecwsd from a western facing hillside that is set on broken basalt. Showing a deep core, the 2019 ‘Gestalt Block’ leads with stony undertones alongside clove, wild mushroom and blackberry compote. The palate is beautifully textured with plenty of flavor density. Sour black raspberry and black cherry notes collide with shades of kumquat zest, wet stone and cloves. Texturally very elegant, and showing a good acid backbone, this is beautiful wine to consume now and over the next twelve years. Drink 2022-2035- 93

2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Basalt Block’ Pinot Noir- The 2019 ‘Basalt Block’ Pinot Noir comes from a southern facing aspect at their estate vineyard which is set on broken basalt. Once on the nose this revels in tart red fruit tones alongside freshly tilled soils and stony undercurrents. The palate is soft and polished with plenty of tension and stony minerality. Rich red and dark fruits combine with shades of pipe tobacco and a soft texture. Finishing long with black fruits and mineals, this is a downright awesome new bottling that has plenty of stuffing and finesse to cellar over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2035- 94

2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Cygnus Block’ Pinot Noir- The 2019 ‘Cygnus Block’ was sourced from an eastern slope on the estate vineyard which was planted to Pinot Noir clone Swan selection, 420A. Once on the nose this revels in tart red fruit tones alongside freshly tilled soils, cardamom and stony undercurrents. The palate is very refined and soft, effortlessly gliding throughout the drinking experience. Medium to full-bodied, with gobs of finesse, this black fruit-driven Pinot Noir is already beautifully evolved and will live on for at least another fifteen years. Drink 2022-2035- 94

2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Heritage Block’ Pinot Noir- A new wine for their lineup the ‘Heritage Block’ Pinot Noir was planted to Mt. Eden, Calera, Swan, Wadensnwil, Pommard clonal selections. A light dusting of volcanic earth and white pepper greet you on the nose, with rich boysenberry and baking spice tones. The palate is soft and inviting with rich dark fruit flavors with smoldering stones and shades of black truffle. Enjoy this beautiful 2019 Pinot Noir over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2022-2033- 93

Pepper Bridge

What is firmly a Walla Walla mainstay, amongst the vines Pepper Bridge Winery has one of the most gorgeous rooftop views in the Walla Walla Valley. I have long loved these wines that show serious tension and aging potential, which is a hallmark of Jean-Francois Pellet’s winemaking. Born and raised in Switzerland, Winemaker Jean-François Pellet is a third-generation wine grower. Working alongside his father,Pellet came to the Walla Walla Valley back in 1999 after working in the Napa Valley. Pepper Bridge founder Norm McKibbon saw the potential in Pellet and made him Pepper Bridge winemaker. The brand has been going strong ever since. In addition to being winemaker at both Pepper Bridge and Amavi, Pellet is a partner in Artifex, the largest custom crush facility in Walla Walla, as well as the Octave Vineyard.

I loved the new red wines by Pellet, who seems to thrive during challenging vintages like 2015. The 2019 wines by him show excellent structure and fruit density. Check out the downright delicious 2019 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 94) which is an amazing achievement in this vintage, showing gorgeous flavor range and lots of aging potential. These wines start around 50 dollars in price, rising to 75 and up. Learn more at pepperbridge.com and here are the gorgeous new red wine releases by Pepper Bridge.

2019 Pepper Bridge Merlot-The 2019 Pepper Bridge Merlot has a relatively large portion of Cabernet Franc (15%) and Malbec (8%) blended in, as this was aged in 44% new French oak before bottling. Very sturdy and well-structured, this offers a wall of rich kirsch and black raspberry flavors, with flinty and salty undertones. Enjoy over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2022-2035- 92

2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Trine’ Red Wine- The 2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Trine’ is a blend of 43% Cabernet Franc and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Sourced mostly from the Seven Hills Vineyard, this delivers sandalwood and red bell pepper notes alongside rich dark fruits and espresso bean on the nose. The palate is very lithe and polished with a silky texture. Finishing long with black fruits and salty minerals, this is a fantastic Washington red blend that will cellar well for another fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 93

2019 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from mostly the Seven Hills, Octave and Pepper Bridge Vineyards, this 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon was aged in 55% new French oak prior to bottling. Inky in the glass, the wine shows off heady dark currant and tobacco leaf flavor alongside shades of anise. The palate reveals plenty of flavor density despite the coolness of the vintage. Rich and layered, with firm tannins and a greta acid backbone, this is delicious, well-structured wine that will cellar well for another fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2023-2039- 94

2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Red Wine- A delicious blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, and 12% Cabernet Franc, with small portions Malbec and Petit Verdot, the 2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Red Wine is a gorgeous new effort by the talented Jean-Francois Pellet. Once on the nose this takes on violets with blackberry compete and creme de cassis aromas that sing in unison. The palate is polished and refined with firm tannins that frame a deep core of black fruits. Really good now, try to resist this beauty for at least another year. Drink 2023-2039- 94

2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Pepper Bridge Vineyard’ Red Wine- The outstanding 2019 Pepper Bridge ‘Pepper Bridge Vineyard’ Red Wine combines near equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, with 8% Petit Verdot. Aged in 57% new French oak, this unveils ripe boysenberry and chocolate covered espresso bean aromas alongside suggestions of black rose petals and wet gravel. Once on the mouth, this is very elegant with silky tannins that mingle well with heady dark fruit and Turkish coffee flavors. Finishing long with black cherry and minerals, this is delicious wine that is best enjoyed in a year or two. Drink 2023-2039- 94