Gary Horner blended lots from five favorite vineyards, with the majority coming from Prince Hill and Battle Creek, along with smaller percentages from Knight's Gambit, Tuenge and Niederberger. It's a stunning with from first whiff through the lingering finish. It opens with aromas of sweet oak spices, strawberry jam, cherry vanilla cola, clove and red currant. It's a rich yet … [Read more...] about Erath Winery 2010 Estate Collection Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, $34
Pacific Rim Winemakers 2011 Gewürztraminer, Columbia Valley, $11
Best Buy! Pacific Rim near Washington's Red Mountain focuses on Riesling, but this is one of the rare non-Rielsing wines it produces. The connection to this German variety is obvious, and Pacific Rim consistently produces one of the tastier Gewürztraminers we review each year. This is a classic with aromas of lychee, grapefruit, clove and lemon custard, followed by flavors of … [Read more...] about Pacific Rim Winemakers 2011 Gewürztraminer, Columbia Valley, $11
Tsillan Cellars 2010 Estate Malbec, Lake Chelan, $28
Tsillan Cellars on the south shore of Lake Chelan is one of the most beautiful wineries in the Pacific Northwest and offers one of the prettiest views anywhere in Washington wine country. The wines are pretty special, too, relying on estate grapes planted where some of the world's best Red Delicious apples once were planted. This plush Malbec opens with aromas of flannel, dusty … [Read more...] about Tsillan Cellars 2010 Estate Malbec, Lake Chelan, $28
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2012 Dry Riesling, Columbia Valley, $10
Best Buy! Based on price, quality and production, this Riesling from Washington's flagship winery is difficult to beat. Thanks to efforts like this, as well as superb Rieslings coming from Washington, New York and Australia, consumers are gaining a great understanding and appreciation of dry Rieslings. This effort from the Ste. Michelle team actually has enough residual sugar … [Read more...] about Chateau Ste. Michelle 2012 Dry Riesling, Columbia Valley, $10
Elk Cove Vineyards 2012 Pinot Blanc, Willamette Valley, $19
Another stunning wine from second-generation winemaker Adam Campbell at his winery in northern Yamhill County. Campbell has his whites dialed in, as his 2012 Pinot Gris also earned our top rating. This Pinot Blanc opens with aromas of lemon zest, honeydew melon and Fuji apple. It has loads of acidity - especially for a Pinot Blanc - along with flavors of grapefruit, pineapple … [Read more...] about Elk Cove Vineyards 2012 Pinot Blanc, Willamette Valley, $19