The Wisconsin boys pay tribute to Argentina, thanks to prized Malbec from StoneTree on the Wahluke Slope, their own Sconni Block in the Walla Walla Valley and their expanding relationship with the Olsen brothers vineyard in the Yakima Valley. Fascinating aromas include dark cherry, an Almond Joy bar, graphite and moist earth. Those notes ring true on the palate as lush fruit … [Read more...] about Dusted Valley Vintners 2013 Malbec, Columbia Valley, $42
Pepper Bridge Winery 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $60
Norm McKibben recruited Jean-François Pellet to the Walla Walla Valley with the goal of producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, which they’ve done since 1998. The vineyard named Pepper Bridge played a minor role in this bottling dominated by Seven Hills Vineyard, and Pellet’s blending skill is on display as the five classic Bordeaux grapes come together. His 19-month program … [Read more...] about Pepper Bridge Winery 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $60
Telaya Wine Co. 2014 Syrah, Snake River Valley, $30
The Sullivans continue to grow their program in Idaho’s Snake River Valley, and they doubled production of their dark and savory Syrah off Sawtooth Vineyard for the 2014 vintage. The fragrant nose of mocha, salted caramel and cola includes black olive, sandalwood and toast - signs of the 20 months in French oak. Its pleasing structure of dark blue fruit, akin to black currant, … [Read more...] about Telaya Wine Co. 2014 Syrah, Snake River Valley, $30
Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Cold Creek Vineyard Riesling, Columbia Valley, $16
Few producers use the phrase “old vines” on their Riesling labels, but the phrase applies to Cold Creek Vineyard, one of the most historic sites in Washington state and more than 40 years old. And that Riesling thrives in the same vineyard as Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the successful versatility of the Columbia Valley. Bob Bertheau has produced vineyard-designate wines … [Read more...] about Chateau Ste. Michelle 2015 Cold Creek Vineyard Riesling, Columbia Valley, $16
Pepper Bridge Winery 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $60
Norm McKibben recruited Jean-François Pellet to the Walla Walla Valley with the goal of producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, which they’ve done since 1998. The vineyard named Pepper Bridge played a minor role in this bottling dominated by Seven Hills Vineyard, and Pellet’s blending skill is on display as the five classic Bordeaux grapes come together. His 19-month program … [Read more...] about Pepper Bridge Winery 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla Valley, $60