When Gallo purchased this historic Washington brand in the spring of 2012, it dropped its extensive contracts for Riesling and discontinued production of the Woodinville winery’s popular and sweet Cellarmaster’s Riesling. This year, Canadian-born winemaker Sean Hails has Columbia back in the Riesling game, and he shows his skill with this dry (0.7% residual sugar) approach using berries from the Ancient Lakes and cooler Yakima Valley sites. Refreshing aromas of mango, Golden Delicious apple, canned pineapple and lychee spill out into flavors of apricot, juicy pear and apple. There’s richness on the entry, but it dries out with distinction on the midpalate. And the finish doesn’t seem to stop. Suggested pairings include spicy Asian dishes, flaky white fish with mango salsa and summertime salads. While it’s primarily a tasting room wine, there is a small amount of distribution in the Northwest.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 568 cases
Alcohol: 13.1%
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