Best Buy! The three-generation Williams family remains faithful champions of this charming variety that has cast a spell on visitors since its first release in 1980. JJ Williams, the clan's charismatic sales manager, is happy to report Chenin Blanc is "by far our most popular white wine in the tasting room." It's easy to see why, especially at this time of year with huge … [Read more...] about Kiona Vineyards and Winery 2012 Chenin Blanc, Columbia Valley, $15
Saviah Cellars 2012 The Jack Riesling, Columbia Valley, $15
Best Buy! With a pedigree of vineyards such as Elerding (Yakima Valley) and Evergreen (Ancient Lakes of the Columbia Valley), two of the state's top spots for Riesling, Walla Walla Valley winemaker Richard Funk delivers a delicious drink that's ideal for summertime enjoyment. There's a theme of apple and peach in the bright nose that also hints at saffron and lemon pepper. … [Read more...] about Saviah Cellars 2012 The Jack Riesling, Columbia Valley, $15
Brian Carter Cellars 2009 Le Coursier, Columbia Valley, $34
Proprietary blends are the focus of longtime Washington winemaker Brian Carter, and he dubbed this for the French word for "the steed." In 2009, Stone Tree Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope contributed the most of the seven sites that contributed to his blend that traditionally leads with Merlot (54%), followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (18%), Cabernet Franc (16%), Malbec (8%) and … [Read more...] about Brian Carter Cellars 2009 Le Coursier, Columbia Valley, $34
Naches Heights Vineyard & Winery, 2012 Two Coyote Vineyard Can-Can, Yakima Valley, $12
Best Buy! Owner/winemaker Phil Cline more than doubled production of his proprietary blend of Viognier (53%), Chardonnay (28%) and Roussanne, which comes from a small vineyard he manages in the Rattlesnake Hills. The frolicking aromas kick out hints of candy corn, piña colada hard candy and banana chips. There are fun flavors of apricot and peach, joined by more tropical notes … [Read more...] about Naches Heights Vineyard & Winery, 2012 Two Coyote Vineyard Can-Can, Yakima Valley, $12
Saviah Cellars 2009 Big Sky Cuvée, Columbia Valley, $35
Walla Walla's Richard Funk continues to confirm his place among the region's top red winemakers. The latest honor came last month when this blend of Merlot (56%), Cabernet Sauvignon (24%) and Cabernet Franc (12%) from Stillwater Creek near Royal City, Wash., — combined by Malbec and Petit Verdot from McClellan Estate in the Walla Walla Valley — earned best of show at the … [Read more...] about Saviah Cellars 2009 Big Sky Cuvée, Columbia Valley, $35