Nine Hats 2012 Riesling, Columbia Valley, $12
Best Buy! Nine Hats refers to the nine acclaimed winemakers who participate in the Long Shadow Vintners program, and this tier handles lots they’ve declassified. But the quality of the wine reflects the sites involved — The Benches in the Horse Heaven Hills and Underwood Mountain Vineyard in the Columbia Gorge. Its theme is green and racy from start to finish. Aromas hint at Granny Smith apple, lemongrass, Jolly Rancher apple candy and ScotchTape, followed by flavors of tart apple, Asian pear, lime, jasmine and apple box. The dry approach, mouthwatering acidity, minerality and screwcap closure will appeal to many, especially at this price.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,320 cases
Alcohol: 12.5%
Thank you for the info on $15 and under wines. I’ve been a red wine fan for most of my adult life and now that I’m retired I must be frugal with wine costs. I appreciate the information, especially because I want to support Washington wines.
Mike, thanks for the note. These are simply some of the wines we’ve tasted in recent weeks. Look for brands such as Columbia Crest, 14 Hands, Washington Hills, Waterbrook and Hogue and you’ll find a fair number of wines in that nice price range (reds and whites).