The home of the late Bill Powers remains a stone’s throw from the Badger Mountain tasting room in Kennewick, Wash., and housing developments continue to encircle those vineyards he planted. His visionary organic farming practices live on with winemaker Jose Mendoza, who is in his third decade with Badger Mountain/Powers Winery. Here, he works with primarily Arete Vineyard — also an organic site — on Radar Hill near Othello, Wash., for his organic Riesling, which includes Badger Mountain fruit (28%). This Riesling breaks down some stereotypes, starting with its bone-dry profile, starting with bright citrus aromas of starfruit, Key lime, fresh-pressed apple cider and grassiness. Those starfruit and Key Lime notes make their way on to the palate, which brings in quince at the midpoint. Tingly acidity and peach skin in the finish do more than balance the 0.8% residual sugar.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 3,000 cases
Alcohol: 12.5%
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