This boutique Seattle winery is owned and operated by master woodworker Tom Stangeland, whose philosophy is to craft wines of balance and elegance. This Cab Franc includes a bit of Merlot, which helps to lift the fruit a bit. It opens with aromas of slate, Cherry Garcia and clove, followed by flavors of blueberry, oak, pomegranate and cranberry. It's all backed with mild, … [Read more...] about Cloudlift Cellars 2010 Ascent Cabernet Franc, Horse Heaven Hills, $24
Vin du Lac of Chelan 2011 Lehmbecker Late Harvest Riesling/Gewurztraminer, Lake Chelan, $24
This tasty dessert blend includes two classic German varieties grown in the young and somewhat cooler Lake Chelan area of Washington's Columbia Valley. It opens with aromas of honey, spice and orange blossoms, followed by sweet flavors of canned pear, dried apple and a drizzle of honey. Rating: Recommended Production: 400 cases Alcohol: 10.8% Website … [Read more...] about Vin du Lac of Chelan 2011 Lehmbecker Late Harvest Riesling/Gewurztraminer, Lake Chelan, $24
Woodinville Wine Cellars 2010 Conner Lee Vineyard LMS Malbec, Columbia Valley, $38
Winemaker Sean Boyd brought in grapes from famed Conner Lee Vineyard in the arid Columbia Basin. This 100-acre vineyard near the town of Basin City contributes to many of the state's top wines. This Malbec opens with aromas of green tea, blueberry, chocolate and black cherry, followed by flavors of boysenberry, huckleberry and oak spice. It's all backed with bright acidity - … [Read more...] about Woodinville Wine Cellars 2010 Conner Lee Vineyard LMS Malbec, Columbia Valley, $38
JoieFarm 2011 PTG, Okanagan Valley, $24
This unusual but traditional Burgundian blend of Gamay (52%) and Pinot Noir (48%) is known as "passe-tout-grains," hence the name "PTG." Owners Michael Dinn and Heidi Noble focus on food-friendly wines, and this red fits their strategy perfectly. It opens with aromas of fresh boysenberry juice, milk chocolate, Bing cherry and forest floor. On the palate, it offers huge flavors … [Read more...] about JoieFarm 2011 PTG, Okanagan Valley, $24
Waterbrook Winery 2012 Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, $11
Best Buy! Walla Walla's Waterbrook has long been known for producing high-quality, value-minded wines, and this continues under Precept Wine's ownership. This bright, delicious Sauvignon Blanc opens with aromas of apple, slate and lemon, followed by flavors of lime, sweet herbs and apple. It has a touch of residual sugar and should pair nicely with salmon, fish and chips, … [Read more...] about Waterbrook Winery 2012 Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, $11