This label for Long Shadows Vintners in Walla Walla is a collaboration between former Ste. Michelle Wine Estates boss Allen Shoup and famed German winemaker Armin Diel. They came together a decade ago to craft a Washington wine with an international perspective. This is the latest version, and it is superb. It opens with aromas of lemon, lime and slate, followed by flavors of … [Read more...] about Poet’s Leap 2012 Riesling, Columbia Valley, $20
Waterbrook Winery 2011 Reserve Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $15
Best Buy! This delicious and affordable Chardonnay is produced by one of Walla Walla's first wineries (circa 1984), which now is owned by Precept Wine in Seattle and has a beautiful showcase winery just west of downtown Walla Walla. This white wine opens with aromas of pear, apricot, apple and a hint of butter, followed by fruit-driven flavors of Asian pear and buttered … [Read more...] about Waterbrook Winery 2011 Reserve Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, $15
Chateau Figareaux 2011 Tradition, Columbia Valley, $25
Winemaker Byron Dooley crafted this red wine in a Bordeaux style, a blend of Merlot (47%), Cabernet Sauvignon (35%) and Cabernet Franc (18%). It opens with aromas of mint, strawberry jam and pomegranate, followed by big, juicy flavors of red cherry, raspberry and cranberry. It's all backed with sturdy tannins. Rating: Recommended Production: 196 cases Alcohol: … [Read more...] about Chateau Figareaux 2011 Tradition, Columbia Valley, $25
San Juan Vineyards 2010 Cabernet Franc, Horse Heaven Hills, $28
There's nothing but Cabernet Franc in this bottle, and it's dominated by Alder Ridge Vineyard fruit taken Oct. 20 of that year. Chris Primus, longtime winemaker at this Friday Harbor destination, also targets French oak for this release, although only 10% of that barrel program is new. It makes for a nose of dense black cherry, blueberry, clove and a tiny pinch of fresh dill. … [Read more...] about San Juan Vineyards 2010 Cabernet Franc, Horse Heaven Hills, $28
Two Mountain Winery 2011 Copeland Vineyard Riesling, Rattlesnake Hills, $15
Best Buy! Last year marked the 10th vintage for Two Mountain, and it also marked a decade since the first time the Rawn brothers pulled fruit off these family-planted vines. This site in a higher-elevation portion of the Yakima Valley was picked Oct. 17. There's a theme of floral notes with jasmine, honeysuckle, lime, Granny Smith apple, river rock and sea breeze. Its balance … [Read more...] about Two Mountain Winery 2011 Copeland Vineyard Riesling, Rattlesnake Hills, $15